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And are we still living outwith our means while chasing impossible dreams? Look at what JCD has to say about his time here. Maybe its just me, but I find it very worrying that we paid a player like him so much cash. I thought we had our wage budget under control after Bain sorted it out a few years ago. If we are still paying big money on wages, should I be unduly worried about our overall financial stability? The latest figures made for depressing reading and given the lack of success on the park, does this not just confirm that the club is being run in a very risky way again? Did SDM not learn anything from what happened when DA was here?

Rangers boss Walter Smith says Charlie Adam still has a future at Ibrox - if he wants to stay. More...

Hearts midfielder Marius Zaliukas says losing his appeal against Saturday's red card could lead to his departure from Scotland. More...

By Andrew Dickson CHARLIE ADAM insists Rangers can still catch up with Celtic and win the league the way the Parkhead club did last season. The Light Blues find themselves seven points behind in the title race after they lost today's Old Firm derby 1-0 at Ibrox. Kenny Miller, RangersBut having seen the title go to Glasgow's east end after Gordon Strachan's men made up a similar gap before the summer, Adam sees no reason why Gers can't do the same thing. He said: "It was a tough day for us. Goals win you games and on this occasion it was Celtic who managed to score. "The first goal has a big say in what happens in these games. It has been that way over a number of years. "We had opportunities to score and might have won if we'd gone ahead but we never did that and they made the breakthrough. "Now we'll get on with it. We'll bounce back and we know there is still a long way to go in the championship. "We're perfectly capable of winning anywhere and we know we've got to roll our sleeves up, work really hard and try to claw the gap back.Davie Weir "Celtic did that last year so I don't see why we can't do the same thing again ourselves this season. "The title is not lost and there are plenty of games left to play with lots of points up for grabs. "There will still be twists and turns from now until May and it's just up to us to capitalise on it if Celtic make any mistakes" Adam was a surprise starter as he came into the team for the first time in four weeks at Kyle Lafferty's expense. Although he has been linked with a January move away from Ibrox, he's determined to stay and fight for his place. Charlie Adam, RangersAnd having lost in the derby after he was a winner last time out, he's just as eager to ensure he tastes victory in the big game again in the future as a Gers star. Adam added: "It has been the case a few times now that I've only played in certain matches but I train as though I'll play in every game so I was prepared to play. "When I'm not in the first team, I'm taking part in bounce games or in the reserves so it's not a difficult situation for me. "To come back into the team was fantastic and it showed the manager still has faith in me. "It was great to be back in the side but you obviously you to come in and get victories so it was disappointing the way the game ended."

By Andrew Dickson WALTER SMITH insists Rangers have not been made aware of interest in any of their players ahead of the transfer window opening on Thursday. A number of Ibrox stars have been linked with moves away from the club in the last few days, with Andrius Velicka and Nacho Novo two of the latest. Nacho NovoOne report has claimed Hearts are keen on resigning Velicka while another has said Deportivo La Coruna want to take Spanish striker Novo back to his homeland. Smith is getting used to the speculation that comes with the transfer window system, having only become caught up in it for the first time when he returned to Gers. All he would confirm is that as he looks ahead to what's expected to be a busy month in the market, he will have to trim his squad before he can bolster it again. Smith said: "We would hope to be active in the transfer market in terms of bringing players in but that is dependent on who we get out. "We have too many lads in the group who are not playing and they don't like that, which means it's not conducive to having a good squad. "Nacho is going to Spain in one newspaper then going to Hull in another and there's quite a gap between the two. "We get to the open season when people are free to speculate but the fact is we've had no contact at this stage regarding any of our players.Charlie Adam "We will just have to wait and see what happens. You go for a few months when the transfer window is closed and you don't have any speculation but now it has started. "When I returned to Rangers, it was the first time I had really experienced that sort of situation with the window and there are a great deal of rumours at the moment. "Of course, we have scouts in place as people do at every club but, first and foremost, we must adjust our current squad before we look at bringing bodies in." Smith has hinted Charlie Adam might have a future at Ibrox after all, just days after it seemed his time with Rangers was poised to come to an end. The midfielder was a surprise starter against Celtic on Saturday and the manager was relatively satisfied with how the 23-year-old performed. He added: "Charlie has been in and out of the team and whether he's happy with that or not is another matter. "But he can do a job for us. He has done so in the past and will continue to do so in the weeks ahead."

Celtic have completed the signing of Czech Republic Under-20 defender Milan Misun from FK Pribram The 18-year-old left-back has signed a four-year contract with the reigning Scottish Premier League champions. "It's a tremendous honour to sign for a club of Celtic's stature," Misun told Celtic's official website. "I know that there are some quality players at Celtic and I will need to work extremely had to break into the first team." The defender opted for a move to Glasgow despite interest from Italian Serie A club AC Milan. He is a young man with certainly a lot of potential Celtic manager Gordon Strachan Celtic have deployed Lee Naylor and Mark Wilson in the left-back position this season, but Wilson is a naturally right-footed defender. "We are delighted to complete the signing of Milan Misun," added manager Gordon Strachan. "He is a young man with certainly a lot of potential and we will be doing all we can to maximise his potential and try and ensure that he is a success at Celtic." Last week, Celtic captured Derry City winger Niall McGinn and Dundee United goalkeeper Lukasz Zaluska has signed a pre-contract agreement to join in the summer. MY SPORT: DEBATE One for the future I think, but already playing for Czech U-21 team so can't be all bad?? Powered_Up_Pac-Man Whilst on trial at Celtic's Lennoxtown training centre, Misun was joined by FK Pribram team-mate Anton Fantis, but the SPL leaders have put a possible move for the 16-year-old on hold. Strachan said he had yet to make a decision on whether to sign Brann Bergen defender Erlend Hanstveit, although it appears unlikely he will be offered a deal. Hanstveit cut short his Celtic trial to return to Norway for his wedding and will learn Strachan's thoughts through the club scout. "We need to make contact there through John Park," Strachan said on Friday. "Once we make contact then we will make clear our decision." http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/7783307.stm

Poor old Graeme Smith, he's another Alan Gow! WS buys him on a free, never plays him and is then booted out the door. What a waste of 18 months.

From the Scottish Sun so take with pinch of salt ! CHARLIE ADAM has been told he can LEAVE Rangers when the transfer window opens. SunSport can reveal that the home-grown midfielder is the latest star to be made available in January. Adam, just two seasons into a five-year contract, has failed to hold down a regular place and itââ?¬â?¢s understood he was given the shattering news by boss Walter Smith yesterday morning. The left-sided star has hit 18 goals in 85 top-team games but has never been a favourite among the Ibrox faithful. Now Adam, who turned 23 yesterday, has been told he can find another club as Gers seek to reduce the wage bill. They have also stalled on fresh contract talks with Scotland defender Kirk Broadfoot. Boss Smith was ready to hand the stopper a bumper new deal more than five weeks ago. But Broadfootââ?¬â?¢s agent Tom Callaghan insisted last night that all attempts by his representatives to get in touch with Gers chief executive Martin Bain have fallen on deaf ears. It is understood Gers DO want to hold on to the 24-year-old. Ibrox sources claim the delay is down to the fact they want to slash their ballooning wage bill before offering anyone improved terms. Yet that message hasnââ?¬â?¢t been relayed to Broadfoot or his agent. Callaghan said: ââ?¬Å?Weââ?¬â?¢ve made numerous attempts to speak to Rangers about Kirkââ?¬â?¢s future. But at this moment they arenââ?¬â?¢t prepared to talk about it. ââ?¬Å?There isnââ?¬â?¢t anyone who is more of a Rangers man than Kirk. ââ?¬Å?He dreams of winning things with the club and maybe even captaining them one day. I just hope he gets a chance to live out those dreams.ââ?¬Â Broadfoot penned a contract until May 2010 when he joined from St Mirren 18 months ago. But he has since established himself in the side and won three caps. It is believed he wants a deal on a par with some of Gersââ?¬â?¢ other established stars ââ?¬â? thought to be an increase of around Ã?£3,500 a week. SunSport revealed yesterday that a number of Gersââ?¬â?¢ fringe players will go next month. They could include Chris Burke, Steven Smith and Christian Dailly.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/7764671.stm Roy Keane has left his position as manager of Sunderland, BBC Sport understands. Sunderland have yet to confirm the exit of Keane, who was set to give a news conference at 1300 GMT ahead of Saturday's game at Manchester United. The Black Cats are 18th in the Premier League and have lost five of their last six games. The ex-Manchester United midfielder took over at Sunderland in 2006 and led them to the Premier League in 2006-07. Keane, 37, has said in recent weeks that his future may not be certain hinting that he could leave the club. Their latest defeat came against Bolton on Saturday with the Black Cats losing 4-1. "I ask myself every day if I'm the right man for Sunderland," he said following the weekend defeat. "I asked myself this morning, and I said I was. Sunday morning, if the answer's no, we'll have to look at it." Keane has spent nearly �£70m on 33 players since his arrival in August 2006 including the big money arrivals of striker Kenwyne Jones, midfielder Kieran Richardson, defender Anton Ferdinand and keeper Craig Gordon. ------------------------------------------------------- Cammy F

by David Melvin GREGG Wylde could scarcely have hoped for a better opening to his first term as part of Rangers' under-19 set up. The young left back has made himself a first choice in Billy Kirkwood's defence and last month collected the Clydesdale Bank's rising star award for the SPL youth league's best performer. But the talented 17-year-old is refusing to get carried away and insists he will keep his head down and continue to work towards his long term goals. He said: "I feel I've started quite well and hopefully I can keep that going throughout the rest of the season." "Greig Wylde in actionIt was good to get the award and it's something I'd like more of in my career in the future, but this is just a nice way to start. "It was a great boost to get recognised in that way but when I was first told about it, it was a real surprise." Wylde has already managed three goals from the full back position, including one in last month's convincing 6-0 win over Brora Rangers in the Youth Cup at Ibrox. That victory set up a fourth round tie with Dumbarton on Sunday again set to be played at the club's famous home. Wylde admits he enjoyed the experience of getting on the score sheet in such a significant fixture as his side kicked off the defence of a trophy that Kirkwood's teams have won in each of the last two seasons. He added: "I've enjoyed the start to the season with the under-19s and although we haven't been playing too well recently we've been grinding out results. "It's been good to get forward and get a couple of goals, but as I've said it's just a start and it's up to me to keep it going through the season. "I've got license to get forward and I like starting from that position because you can see the game in front of you better. I'm there to defend first and foremost but a full back can be an attacking option too. "I'm happy anywhere as long as I'm playing although it's fair to say my best position is probably left back but wherever Billy Kirkwood needs me to play I'll be happy to do that.Gregg Wylde "It was a great experience to get another game at Ibrox last month. I'd played there a couple of times at younger levels but that was a cup game and it was a different atmosphere. "It was nice to get a goal there too in what was an important game for us. Although this is my first year in the 19s we know that we've got a cup to defend. "It's important for the new group to make it three out of three. Rangers need to be winning trophies no matter what level it's at because that's what the club is all about. "This game against Dumbarton will be a tough one and we'll need to approach like we would any other game in the league." Wylde's approach to the game has seen him tipped for big things in the future but the Scotland youth star admits for now he is concentrating only on the aspects of his game that he can improve. He admitted: "I know there is plenty to work on and my delivery is just one thing that I need to spend time on. "It's not just about getting in the right positions; you need to deliver well once you get there. "But with all the help I get from the coaches here I feel I am progressing and I hope that continues." Despite having beBoyd congratulates Fleck after his great strikeen one of the youth players invited to train with the first team already this season, Wylde admits he is not thinking too far ahead as he looks to build on early season successes. He said: "At the moment I'm only concentrated on the 19s. It's my first season at this level and I'd expect a couple of years with the 19s and then on to the reserves and we'll see what happens from there. "There are guys in the first team squad now that have followed that path and that's the benchmark for all the guys in the youth teams here. We're all aiming to follow in their footsteps. "There are plenty of examples for us young guys to follow. The likes of Alan Hutton, Chris Burke and Stevie Smith all got their chance after doing well in Murray Park's youth teams. "And last season John Fleck got off the bench in the Scottish Cup Final and he was only 16 then.Billy Kirkwood "That's encouraging for all of us in the youth department as it shows that you will get a chance if you perform well consistently." Wylde has certainly managed that so far this season and his coach has been delighted with his progress. Billy Kirkwood said: "Credit to Gregg; he's been fantastic from the left back area and wide on the left. "He had three goals in three games at one stage and he's been doing very well. He has a great asset in his pace and down that left side he delivers a great ball in to the box. "He's shown a good consistency and hopefully some of the other lads can do the same and pick up the rising star award through the season.

Manager Craig Levein is ready to commit his long-term future to Dundee United. More...

After dragging my sorry ass out of my sick bed on Saturday, I trudged along to Tynecastle with a sense of trepidation as we haven’t exactly hit the heights away from home this season with victories at Parkhead, Easter Road and Rugby Park being the exception rather than the rule. The good thing about following Rangers recently is that it only takes a few minutes to get a feeling on how the game is going to pan out. Once again on Saturday, on hearing the starting 11 and witnessing the slow, predictable and lazy start to the game, the following 90 minutes was as painful as it was predictable. There is so much wrong with Rangers at the moment that an article on a website or in a fanzine couldn’t begin to cover all that is wrong at Ibrox. From the charlatan that is running the circus, to the monkeys that be employs to a manager who is tactically inept and a backroom staff whom appear to offer little input to change this ineptness. The obvious failings on the pitch mirror the obvious (well to some sections of the support) off the pitch, with one having a direct implication on the other. However, the woes off the pitch are no excuse for a keeper who is more interested in shagging his way through the female population of Glasgow than he is at coming off his line when a ball is floated into his 6 yard box. The off field problems don’t excuse 2 experienced centre-halves being bitch-slapped by a forward who failed to make an impression on the lower zeniths of the English Championship. It also doesn’t explain why we have a manager who would rather play 4 or 5 players out of position than playing players in their correct positions (even though he has signed those players to bolster those glaring deficiencies). However, let’s not lay all the blame at the managers door, our squad has been dismantled regularly and all our best players sold on and replaced by a lower standard of player. I actually believe that I could manage an SPL team to a victory against Rangers. It is so easy to exploit our glaring weaknesses. Flood the midfield, get the ball into the wide areas and force Rangers into a long-ball game, and 90% of the time, you’ll get a result. Our midfield is all over the place and so narrow. By playing centre-halves at fullback, our back four is also narrow, leaving huge spaces down both flanks. Our strikers have their strengths, but bullying defenders in a physical battle isn’t one of them. We did have a gifted striker who could dominate an entire backline, who could bully them and who could also play a bit, but he was sold in the last transfer window. Never mind, we did make a wee profit on him (note to SDM – ensure Mr Bain receives another pay increase for that piece of business). Also, this trait of pulling everyone back to defend set-pieces is ridiculous. It allows opposition to flood the box and create mayhem - it also results in us gifting the ball back to them if we manage to clear the ball and it comes straight back on top of us, resulting in us having to defend prolonged periods of pressure. We have to get back to basics – get 11 players on the pitch who are playing their correct positions and get back to what Rangers do best, playing free-flowing and attractive football. Firstly, I’d drop McGregor and bring back Alexander. I would also drop David Weir who’s distribution is amateurish and try Broadfoot as his long-term replacement. Deploy young McMillan at right back and Papac at left back. In midfield, I’d play Aaron, Davis, Mendes with Edu as the holding player and have Miller and Boyd/Lafferty as the front pairing. Having spent Ã?£3.5M on the lad, the least WS can do is deploy him through the middle rather than watch the lad rot on the left-wing. As the title says, supporting Rangers at the moment is like groundhog day. The above failings aren’t new; they have been evident and unresolved for nearly a decade now. We are staring down the barrel of losing 4 consecutive SPL titles and barring two dramatic, welcome and enjoyable last day triumphs, we’d be staring down the barrel of going almost 8 seasons without winning the title. Those two dramatic, welcome and enjoyable last day triumphs, like the UEFA Cup Final (and run to said final) last season have been nothing more than false dawns. It has been debated before, but it is worth reiterating, if we continue to buy run of the mill SPL players, we’ll continue to witness run of the mill SPL performances which will ensure that we gain run of the mill SPL results. We have nothing special within our ranks at the moment (not that we are witnessing anyway) and we have lost that aura that a great team appears to have. No SPL club are frightened of playing Rangers anymore, why should they be, we aren’t a great team and haven’t laden with great players. For those within our support who believe SDM’s lies and false promises and believe that football is cyclical, I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it isn’t. Celtc broke our dominance due to hard work on the pitch and by finally getting a board that matched the ambitions of their fans. Say what you like about the MOPES and their board, but they have worked as a team, have deflected all the media attention on to us and have overtaken us both on and off the pitch. They are so far ahead, they are in danger of disappearing over the horizon. We’ll continue to be 2nd best until we change those who are in charge, or change the mindset of those currently in control. However, and again, this is groundhog day territory, we won’t ever invoke change as the vast majority still believe (unbelievably) that the current regime are the best way forward for Rangers. SDM and his lapdogs have cleverly pulled the wool over sections of our supporters eyes. They have managed to make the majority of us believe that protesting isn’t the ‘Rangers way’. They have convinced us that protesting is some how ‘The Celtc Way’. Well Bears, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just ask Davie White and John Greig if protesting isn’t the ‘Rangers Way’. We invoked the biggest revolution in Scottish Football for Gods Sake. It was Rangers fans voicing concern of the direction of the club under the Marlborough’s and by demonstrating against the legendary John Greig and Jock Wallaces (2nd stint) managerial disasters. Lastly on this subject and the most ironic part, the vast majority of our support like to impart their Presbyterian believes to all comers, yet believe that protesting isn’t the ‘protestant way’…… In conclusion, if we don’t invoke the necessary changes in the leadership (sic) of our club, we’ll be sitting here writing (and reading) about the same deficiencies for the foreseeable future whilst our club continues its fall from grace and struggles to keep abreast with its bitter rivals. We’ll continue to witness players who are average at best and we’ll continue to struggle to win the SPL title. How long are you willing to wait until you force change? Will 4-in-a-row be your nadir? Or are you willing to wait a few years, give the current custodian more time to ruin this club? For this Bear, I’ll continue to fight for change at the top level in the club. I’ll continue to try and convince other fans that the time is right for change (a decade on their shadow should be enough for all of us). However, I fear more and more groundhog days ahead. Cammy F

Barry Wilson hopes to hold talks soon about whether he will extend his stay at Caledonian Stadium. More...

RANGERS Under-19 star Gregg Wylde has scooped the Clydesdale Bank's rising star award after a run of excellent displays for Billy Kirkwood's side. Gregg WyldeThe young full back is enjoying his first term with the 19s and has popped up with three goals in his nine appearances so far this season. His performances from both left back and left midfield have caught the eye and he admits he was delighted to receive the recognition for his positive start to the campaign. He said: "It's good to get the award and it's something I'd like more of in my career in the future, but this is a nice way to start. "It's a great boost to get recognised in this way and when I was first told about it, it was a real surprise." Wylde has contributed to a steady start from Kirkwood's side as they aim to defend the title they won last season and he is enjoying the step up to a new level. He added: "I've enjoyed the start to the season with the under-19s and although we haven't been playing too well recently we've been grinding out results. Greig Wylde in action"I feel I've started quite well and hopefully I can keep that going throughout the rest of the season." It is a sentiment echoed by Kirkwood who feels the defender's recent performances make the award a thoroughly deserved one. And he is hoping some of his other young stars can follow Wylde's example and earn themselves a similar accolade. He said: "Credit to Gregg; he's had an exceptional month. He's been fantastic from the left back area and wide on the left. "He had three goals in three games at one stage and he's been doing very well. "He has a great asset in his pace and down that left side he delivers a great ball in to the box. "Hopefully some of the other lads can do the same and pick up the award through the season."

by Andrew Dickson WALTER SMITH has hinted Rangers ARE in the market for a defender - but hasn't ruled out Lee McCulloch and Andy Webster providing long-term cover at the back. The Ibrox manager has found himself short of options in that department recently thanks to Madjid Bougherra's calf injury. With Webster on loan to Bristol City and not due back until January, McCulloch has been converted to a centre-half as a result and deployed there ahead of Christian Dailly. The experiment has been a relative success and the Light Blues have won both matches in which the former Wigan man has deputised alongside David Weir. Lee McCullochNow his immediate future could be in the back line as Smith looks to avoid shelling out more cash when the transfer window opens five weeks tomorrow. Gers chairman David Murray has said money will only be available to the manager to strengthen his squad in the case of an emergency. And while Smith is keeping tabs on the availability of certain players, he is keen to see if any of the men he currently has at his disposal can do a job for him. Indeed, if anything, his priority remains trimming his excessive squad and he has reiterated his desire to do that at the turn of the year. Smith said: "When we look at the number of players we have overall, there are 28 people in the senior squad and that is a big staff. "First and foremost, we must deal with that situation as we don't need that many players and we have to address it. "Understandably, some of the boys aren't happy they've not been involved as regularly as they would wish. "In all probability, our staff will be cut down more than anything else but that doesn't stop us from looking at one or two positions we miWalter Smithght need to fill as well. "Obviously, we have to do that in conjunction with people who may leave in the January transfer window. It may be we just go with the squad we have at the moment. "Defensively, Lee has come in and played in a position where he hasn't really played before except in the reserves over the last month or so. "He has done really well in that area and we are pleased with the progress he is making at the back. "Andy will also come back to us from Bristol City and that will alleviate our situation there too. We'll see what happens when his loan agreement ends."

Review of the Season so far: Main site link: http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=711&Itemid=1

Hibernian striker Steven Fletcher is remaining calm as his future comes under increasing scrutiny. More...

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7722919.stm Rangers FC should ensure these items are bought and kept safely for future generations to remember the tragic events of that day.

WALTER SMITH has urged the Rangers paymasters to give Kirk Broadfoot the new improved deal he deserves. Broadfootââ?¬â?¢s Ibrox contract runs out at the end of next season. But Smith wants the full-back, left, tied up NOW to keep predators away. Birmingham City are keeping tabs on his situation and SunSport revealed this week they are preparing a Ã?£2million swoop. But Smith admits the former St Mirren skipper has earned a pay rise. The gaffer said: ââ?¬Å?An improved deal? In all probability that will come. ââ?¬Å?Kirk had a really good season last year and has cemented that this year. ââ?¬Å?In the past he was inconsistent, but heââ?¬â?¢s settled down now.ââ?¬Â SunSport also revealed this week that Stevie Smith feared his Ibrox career was over. The left-back thought he wasnââ?¬â?¢t wanted, but Smith insisted: ââ?¬Å?I spoke to Stevie and he might have misunderstood what I said to him. ââ?¬Å?He is playing reserve games and thatââ?¬â?¢s doing him no good whatsoever. ââ?¬Å?I spoke to him about going out on loan and getting games under his belt ââ?¬â? then weââ?¬â?¢ll all have a better chance to judge where he is and whether he can return to the team. ââ?¬Å?In my 20-odd months here heââ?¬â?¢s managed just two games and he wasnââ?¬â?¢t match-fit for them. ââ?¬Å?Weââ?¬â?¢ve never seen the best of the lad, so the idea was to get him on loan and let him play.ââ?¬Â Smith also insisted he does NOT want to sell midfielder Kevin Thompson in January, with West Brom boss Tony Mowbray keen on his old Hibs star. Smith added: ââ?¬Å?We have two months before the transfer window opens up ââ?¬â? I donââ?¬â?¢t have a thought yet about what will happen. ââ?¬Å?I want our good players here and we need them for the future when the number of games will hopefully increase. ââ?¬Å?A few players may leave, but it wonââ?¬â?¢t be the ones I see as being capable of taking us forward.ââ?¬Â Rangers face Caley at Ibrox today, with skipper Barry Ferguson set for a top-team return. Smith canââ?¬â?¢t wait to team him with Pedro Mendes in a dream midfield. He said: ââ?¬Å?Barry is in our thoughts. Heââ?¬â?¢s ready after a reserve game. Itââ?¬â?¢s just up to me now to decide how best he should be introduced. ââ?¬Å?We have five games in the space of a couple of weeks and we want everyone involved. ââ?¬Å?Weââ?¬â?¢ll be able to get Barry back to full match fitness quite quickly. ââ?¬Å?The midfield is an area where I want players who are all good at keeping the ball. I am looking forward to seeing how they all gel. ââ?¬Å?Barry and Pedro are good midfielders and both have the capability of being attacking players or they can drop deeper. ââ?¬Å?I have no fears about them complementing each other. ââ?¬Å?I always feel that Kevin ââ?¬â? although he doesnââ?¬â?¢t get the write-ups ââ?¬â? also does very well for us in there.ââ?¬Â Kyle Lafferty, meanwhile, has been urged to remain patient. The young Northern Ireland star was signed as a striker, but has been forced to play in midfield. Smith added: ââ?¬Å?Itââ?¬â?¢s been a sticky start for Kyle in the sense that injuries have upset his rhythm. ââ?¬Å?I hope he settles down now and weââ?¬â?¢ll see a lot more of him in the future. ââ?¬Å?Although he has played most of his football wide on the left for us and Burnley, I still see him as a central striker in the longer term. ââ?¬Å?Iââ?¬â?¢d like to see him get more experience there.ââ?¬Â http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/article1880563.ece

KRIS Boyd today revealed how embracing the futuristic fitness regime at Rangers has helped him get in the shape - and form - of his life. Boyd has often been criticised for his lack of mobility and his dubious workrate during his two-and-a-half often fantastic, but frequently frustrating, seasons at Ibrox. Yet, his critics - and there are still a fair few despite his hugely impressive strike rate - have been unable to level that accusation at him in recent weeks. For the 25-year-old has contributed far, far more to the Glasgow club's cause than just goals during the 2008/09 campaign. Indeed, after his double in the 3-1 win over Hamilton at New Douglas Park in the SPL last weekend, Rangers manager Walter Smith declared Kris was in the best physical condition he has ever been in. And the enigmatic player has told how working with Adam Owen, the Head of Sports Science at Murray Park, has been responsible for turning him into a far more complete all-round footballer. Former Welsh professional Owen has introduced a wide range of modern training methods since arriving at Rangers from Sheffield Wednesday shortly after Smith returned last year. Boyd said: "With Adam here at Rangers, every aspect of our fitness and diet is closely monitored and I, along with all of the boys at the club, have definitely benefited from that. "They can put whatever training programmes and fitness regimes in front of you they like, but, at the end of the day, it isn't going to be any use to you if you if you don't want to do it. "In the last three or four months I have really got my head down and probably worked as hard as I have ever done in training. Now I am starting to reap the rewards of that in the matches I am playing. "You get out of the game what you put into it and that has definitely been the case with me in recent weeks. Hopefully, I will continue to do well and score goals in the weeks and months ahead. "With the players we have in the team here we are always going to create chances. It is my responsibility to put them away and so far I have been doing that. "It was a good to get back into the team against Hamilton after a pretty long lay-off and it has been great to score in my last two games. With any luck, that is me up and running now. "There are so many good strikers here at the club that I know that if I stop producing the goods then there will be somebody there on the sidelines waiting to take my place in the team." That fate will not happen any time soon if the former Kilmarnock hit man manages to maintain the purple patch of form he is currently enjoying. He scored the opening goal in his side's straightforward Co-operative Insurance Cup quarter-final win over Hamilton at Ibrox on Tuesday night to take his tally for the season to seven. And he is almost certain to start against Inverness Caley Thistle tomorrow in what will be his team's first league match at home since they played Motherwell over five weeks ago on September 21. Who plays up front alongside Kris, though, is more of a dilemma for Gers manager Smith now with a clutch of top players all vying for a place in the starting line-up. Boyd played in tandem with Jean-Claude Darcheville in midweek and partnered both Kenny Miller and substitute Nacho Novo to good effect last weekend. In addition, Kyle Lafferty who scored a great header against Accies, has once again stated his desire to move from the left of midfield and play up front in the future. However, Kris, who grew up in Ayrshire supporting Rangers, is totally unconcerned who he is in the team with - just as long as he gets a game. He stressed: "I am happy to play with whoever the manager wants to play me with. The most important thing as far as I am concerned is just playing." Many Rangers fans would like to see Boyd given a prolonged run in the team alongside Miller as they feel the pair have different strengths and would complement each other. He said: "Every time I have played up front with Kenny I have felt we have done well together. I certainly enjoy playing with him. I think that, as a partnership, we have done well. "Hopefully, we can stay injury free and get the chance to play together soon to build on our understanding. I think we can definitely play well together." http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2464739.0.0.php

BIRMINGHAM are weighing up a shock Ã?£2million swoop for Rangers star Kirk Broadfoot. Former Ibrox boss Alex McLeish is ready to pounce for Scotland defender Broadfoot when the transfer window opens in January. He has now established himself with Gers since quitting St Mirren two years ago. But the 24-year-old is understood to be unhappy about his current deal which sees him take home Ã?£3,500-a-week basic. That has alerted Blues boss McLeish who is ready to lure versatile Broadfoot south with a bumper Ã?£10,000-a-week package when the window opens. Big Eck is desperate for a centre half and believes Broadfootââ?¬â?¢s ability and physique make him perfect for the demands of the Championship. Broadfootââ?¬â?¢s contract expires in the summer and Gers boss Walter Smith is desperate to keep hold of the defender ââ?¬â? who is enjoying his best form for the club. Despite arriving at Ibrox as a squad player, he has filled the void left by Alan Huttonââ?¬â?¢s Ã?£9m move to Spurs ââ?¬â? but there have been no moves by Gers to offer him a new deal. After winning his first two caps for Scotland against Iceland and Norway, the defender believes he should be brought into line with other top-earners at Ibrox. But now McLeish is ready to lure Broadfoot ââ?¬â? who would prefer to stay at Gers ââ?¬â? with a massive wage hike. Meanwhile, former Ibrox favourite Peter Lovenkrands has pleaded with Rangers to put an end to his Schalke hell. The Danish hitman sees no future for himself in Germany after being frozen out by new coach Fred Rutten. The 28-year-old said: ââ?¬Å?There is no future for me at Schalke. Hopefully something will happen in January. ââ?¬Å?There was a lot of talk about me returning to Rangers last summer. ââ?¬Å?It didnââ?¬â?¢t happen, but I would love to go back there. ââ?¬Å?Of course, if the opportunity arose again I would be delighted.ââ?¬Â http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/article1867756.ece

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As there is no Rangers related football to discuss as the Dundee UTD game was (rightly) called off due to the sad death of their Chairman Eddie Thompson I was going to, surprisingly perhaps, direct my weekly rants exclusively at Walter Smith. Firstly for his cowardly and ill informed comments regarding internet bigots, but bmck and Calscot not only beat me to it, but penned far more eloquent articles that I could ever muster : http://www.gersnetonline.net/vb/showthread.php?t=8519 http://www.gersnetonline.net/vb/showthread.php?t=8511 However, Uncle Walter doesn’t escape my attentions thanks to those excellent articles, I have a tantalising question to set you regarding Walter : If We Had A Theo Walcott, Would We Witness Is Wonder? Over the course of this season, nobody who has witnessed the mercurial skills of Theo Walcott could fail to marvel at the guile and genius of this young and raw talent. Walcott has not only starred for Arsenal, but has burst onto the international stage and set England on their way to automatic World Cup qualification thanks to brilliant displays and fantastic goals. I watching in wonder last night as a youthful Arsenal put Fenerbache to the sword in their own back yard and Walcott was at the centre of everything that was good about Arsenal. It is easy to forget just how young this lad is and his tender age can be used as an excuse (if any are needed) for when his form, inevitably falls a few percentage. So, this question that I’d like to pose is, if Rangers had a ‘Theo Walcott’, would Walter Smith play him in the starting 11 – not just in the mediocre SPL, but in European games? Now, I understand that Wlacott is a ‘one off’, the best talent to come out of England since Wayne Rooney, and don’t think for a minute that we have anyone on our books with the talent that Walcott processes. However, we might have, as when was the last time a ‘youth’ player was given an extended run in our team? I’d guess at Alan Hutton who as soon as he showed any sign of ability, was swiftly dispatched to White Hart Lane. The only young players currently that are being ‘talked up’ at Ibrox are / were John Fleck, Dean Furman and Aaron. Furman has gone on lone and the remaining pair are semi-permanent fixtures on our substitute bench. From the admittedly little that I have seen of the above trio, Fleck is without a doubt the most gifted and hopefully likely to cement a place in the Rangers team in the near future. Fleck was introduced into the dieing embers of last years Scottish Cup Final and along with the return of Beasley, Flecks fleeting appearance was the highlight of that day. Simply put, he didn’t look out of place. I don’t think I was the only Rangers fan who left Hampden that day convinced that I would see a lot more of Fleck this season. Sadly, me and a few others have been left disappointed. Given Walters record at Rangers, he doesn’t appear to be the type of manager to bring youth players into the team and give them an extended run. During the 9-in-a-row years, we saw glimpses of players like Sandy Robertson, Gary McSwegen, Stephen Pressley, Neil Murray et al who contributed to some fantastic Rangers performances both domestically and in Europe, but none were given extended runs in the team. So people, I am convinced that we have or own ‘Theo Walcott’ (in context) sitting at Murray Park but remain unconvinced that we’ll see him get an extend run in the first 11 – much to his, and our detriment. Green With Envy Yip, I’ll admit to being green with envy as I sat down last night to be entertained by Europe’s finest in the Champions League, and I’ll be just as envious as I settle down in front of the TV tonight. I’ll also admit that I am envious of our green foes participation in the CL, and yes, even given their drubbing last night, I am still a little envious of them. In fact, I’m even a tad envious of their 1 point from 50+ available away from home – Christ that’s what you call consistency (ok, ok, ok, that was a big tongue in cheek)…… There is nothing better than an European night, especially at Ibrox, or when you enjoy a fantastic trip to a foreign land. I think we’ve all got stories to tell of our expeditions and of the friends that we’ve made on our travels, both within the travelling Rangers support and friendly locals. For long-term GersNet readers this next statement will come as no surprise, but to newer readers and ‘younger’ Bears it might. Whilst I have no ‘love’ of Manchester United, I do not hold any hatred for them either. I, for a while, took delivery of Man United fanzines (some of the best zines around). I applauded and continue to applaud the Man United fans fight for their club (something we could learn from). I met a fair few Man United fans when I was down for our CL game, and every last one of them were fantastic company and the one thing that I noticed was their burning love for their club – in that respect, they reminded me of US, the Rangers support. For them, its Man U first and Man U last – they have no time for ‘2nd teams’ and no time for ‘love-ins’. Lastly, I believe that we have much in common with Manchester United. Both our clubs are deemed the most successful in our respective countries (although Liverpool would have something to say on that matter), both clubs have overcome terrible disaster and tragedy in their long and illustrious history. Both clubs are ‘hated’ in their own country due to their dominance and both clubs draw fantastic support from out-with the city and country that they belong to. So, its fair to say that I have no qualms regarding Manchester United or their fans. Some Rangers fans will point to the supposed love-in between Man United and Celtc – lets get this straight, this is a one-way street. If you read any Man United fanzines or books written by fans (or their casuals) you’ll understand that they don’t like Timmy at all. Why would they? Timmy sing a Liverpool anthem and sing songs about a terrorist group who targeted Manchester killing citizens and destroying the city. Also, it is worth noting that Manchester United pull a large section of their fanbase from the loyalist and unionist communities of Northern Ireland. Anyway, apologies for digressing, back to the point in hand. At this stage next season, I don’t want to be a mere spectator when the business end of the Champions League comes around. I want Rangers in their and fighting for the right to progress to the knock-out stages of this prestigious tournament. However, after watching some of the awesome performances last night, we have a vast amount of improving to ensure that we can compete annually at this level. To make CL qualification assured we must win the SPL title this year and that is not a formality or a foregone conclusion. Oh, I’ve added a clip from the infamous ‘you-tube’ site (you know, the one UEFA and the media use to try us) of what can only be described as an altercation outside Old Trafford last night – not much love on show here : [ame]http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=bo3C4FoJ0Mk[/ame] Know Your Enemy At the moment, being a Rangers fan, especially one who uses the internet to discuss his team and on occasions, history, politics and religion, it isn’t hard knowing who your enemy is. However, until recently, you wouldn’t have put the manager of your team into the enemy camp. Some of us understand that the Chairman and his lap-dog Bain are well entrenched in the enemy camp and like nothing more than feeding the frenzied media with ‘own goals’ and attacks on Rangers fans. Walter Smith has decided to pitch in with SDM and Bain and thus, must accept the ire that will be directed at him. Now he has opened himself up for criticism relating to topics out-with squad selection, signings and tactics. He has entered the big, bad bigoted Rangers fans debate and hang his colours to the ‘establishments’ mast. I can take the agenda driven media having a go at me (as I don’t except anything else, it goes with territory). I can take agenda driven politicians having a go at me (as I don’t except anything else, it goes with territory). I can take agenda driven organisations like NMB having a go at me (as I don’t except anything else, it goes with territory). It may hurt me to the core, it might drive me to despair, but I can take SDM and Bain having a go at me (as I don’t except anything else, it goes with territory). But I’m sorry Walter, I expected better from you. Cammy F -

As discussed in yesterday's article, today was the annual general meeting of the club's shareholders at Ibrox Stadium. The main topics of debate are listed below. JJB Retail Partership SDM admitted JJB were not contributing to their part of the deal well enough but if they went bust the rights would return to the club immediately. Chairman also confirmed bonus financial targets were not reached but blamed JJB for their poor performance as opposed to club. Media Negativity While Martin Bain agreed that there did appear to be a lack of objectivity within parts of the media, SDM also blamed web-culture for embarrassing the bulk of supporters and urged everyone to be vigilant in that regard. Staff Safety G4S Security are currently protecting Nacho Novo's residence while patrolling other employee localities. Ticketing Arrangements Continual problems with Ticket Office operations were blamed on unprecedented demand due to UEFA Cup run last season. Complete review of match ticket distribution also promised by Martin Bain. Stadium Development Delayed development proposal will be rubber stamped by GCC tomorrow (see other article). No stadium capacity increase at this time due to economic downturn. Shouts of derision were heard as chairman attempted to end Q&A early to discuss topic. Player sales SDM could not guarantee players would not be sold in future to help address long term debt increase. Cuellar and Cousin were both sold because they wanted to invoke clauses in their contracts. Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to the club saying he acted in its best interests at all times.

THE Rangers Supporters Assembly is today pleased to announce that Andy Kerr has been elected as President of the Assembly after previously serving four years as Vice President. The Rangers Supporters Assembly is an independent body representing fans world-wide and as such the President communicates the views of fans to the Club and works with Rangers to ensure consultation with supporters. The Assembly President attends quarterly board meetings with Rangers Football Club as the fans' representative and is the official spokesperson for the Assembly in the media. The President also chairs Assembly meetings, ensures office bearers carry out their duties and is responsible for the Assembly's correspondence and overall operation. Andy is a lifelong Rangers supporter and has been the secretary of Harrogate True Blues Rangers Supporters Club in Yorkshire for ten years. He has also worked with Rangers FC as a fans' representative over a number of years in his roles as Vice President of the Assembly and as a representative on the Rangers Worldwide Alliance. He commented, "It is a considerable honour to fulfil the role of President of the Assembly and it fills me with pride to be representing our great fans. "I have always been a supporter and I could probably count on my fingers the number of games I have missed over the years. "Rangers has been a part of my life for a long time, so working with the Assembly is a privilege. "I am looking forward to the challenge and hope that I can help to ensure consultation and communication with all supporters when big decisions are being made about the Club's future."