Naismith withdraws transfer request

Kilmarnock manager Jim Jefferies revealed constant transfers speculation has led to Steven Naismith withdrawing his transfer request.

Rangers failed with four bids for the 20-year-old over the summer.

Celtic were given permission to speak to Naismith on Monday but Jefferies claimed the Scottish champions had failed to follow that interest up.

The striker, who has three years of his Rugby Park contract to run, submitted a written transfer request after becoming frustrated during the long-running transfer saga.

But Jefferies said: “I got the letter from the chairman late this afternoon and it’s great news for us.

“If anyone doubts his commitment then this has put it to bed.

“I think he had enough of all the speculation and after chatting with his mum and dad he made the decision to put it all behind him and do his best for Kilmarnock.

“And he has apologised to the fans for all the uncertainty.

“If a transfer happens, it happens but he is happy to stay with Kilmarnock and get on with his career.

“He’s letting everyone know and there was no prompting from us.”