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by Lindsay Herron MADJID BOUGHERRA says he is relieved to have been given the chance of playing in the most important game in his career. The Algerian defender was devastated when he was sent off last Saturday because he feared he would miss Sunday's showdown at Tannadice where Rangers can win the title. He is thankful that referee Stuart Dougal looked at the challenge on Jamie Langfield and decided it was not a red card and then happy that the Video Review Panel concurred this morning. He said: "I was frustrated when I was sent off against Aberdeen because I was worried I would miss another big game. "However, when I saw the replay I was confident of an appeal. I would like to say thank you to the referee because it is not easy to change a decision. "So I'm very happy. "This will be the most important game of my career. I have never won anything before and this can my first title. "It's crazy because we have played 37 games and now one game will be the decider."

23 August 2004 Celtic midfielder Neil Lennon will escape disciplinary action despite accusations he overreacted to get Juanjo sent off at Pittodrie. Inverness Caledonian Thistle forward Barry Wilson claimed that Lennon had cheated during Celtic's 3-1 victory. But Scottish FA head of refereeing and discipline Drew Herbertson said: "We will not be taking any further action. "The matter will not be taken forward and will not be the subject of a referral to the review panel." There had been suggestions that video footage could have used to take action against Lennon that would see him ruled out of Sunday's first Old Firm derby of the season against Rangers. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill had told BBC Scotland that Lennon claimed he was headbutted by Inverness winger Juanjo before the Spaniard was sent-off. "I genuinely didn't see it, but it looks like it was the fourth official who saw the incident," said O'Neill. "I can only go by what Neil has said and he told me that the guy came in late and then he was headbutted. "I haven't seen the pictures yet. But, if people are guilty, they have to face the consequences." Inverness are to appeal against Juanjo's red card. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/3588932.stm

The Scottish FA will decide on Tuesday whether to refer to their review panel red cards shown to Madjid Bougherra and Charlie Mulgrew. More...

May 18 2009 By James Traynor and Craig Swan THE fate of Madjid Bougherra and perhaps also Rangers' title hopes depends on a change of heart by linesman Graham Chambers. The assistant referee at Ibrox on Saturday and NOT whistler Stuart Dougal will be asked to decide if Bougherra's red card in the 2-1 win over Aberdeen should be rescinded. But Kyle Lafferty can expect no leniency. In fact, Record Sport can reveal he will be hit with a �£12,000 fine by his own club, who are embarrassed and furious about his behaviour against the Dons. Lafferty is also expected to make apologies for conning Dougal into sending off Charlie Mulgrew. Even so, the Northern Irish internationalist can expect further punishment from the SFA who are determined to stamp out cheating. Lafferty was caught on TV winking to team-mates after he'd thrown himself to the ground clutching his face to pretend he'd been head-butted by Mulgrew. But it emerged last night the Dons defender's red card will be rescinded, leaving him free to face Hibs on Sunday. Rangers hope they will have Bougherra for their crucial match against Dundee United. He was sent off for sliding into Jamie Langfield. It had been thought Dougal sent him off for the challenge but, according to Chambers, his crime was kicking out at the keeper's head as they lay on the turf. Rangers hope Chambers will review the incident after they appeal to the SFA today. If he changes his mind or believes there could be some doubt over intent the incident will go to the SFA's review panel. They will sit before Sunday and there is a good chance they will cut the punishment to a yellow and let Bougherra play at Tannadice. Dougal said in a statement last night: "Upon returning home I reviewed the Mulgrew and Lafferty incident. "My views on it have since been emailed to the SFA, the contents of which must remain private until they've had time to consider them. "Like most people in the ground I was convinced Lafferty had been the victim of violent conduct. I have now seen what others have seen and this will form the basis of my report to the SFA. "With regard to the Bougherra incident, the assistant referee will review his decision if requested." Dougal knows he was conned by Lafferty and the SFA will wipe Mulgrew's record. They will then have to deal with Lafferty because it was his diving that caused the referee to make the wrong call. SFA chief executive Gordon Smith is out to remove simulation from the game and article 10 of the UEFA disciplinary procedure will be used to punish Lafferty in July. That's when the SFA disciplinary committee is scheduled to meet and they will also review incidents involving Celtic's Glenn Loovens and Scott McDonald. Loovens escaped punishment for kicking Maurice Edu in the Old Firm match and McDonald got away with a high tackle on Lee Wilkie of Dundee United. Unlike the Bougherra case, these incidents are referred to the disciplinary meeting because referees didn't see them. Meanwhile, Aberdeen's Michael Paton has slammed Lafferty. The youngster said: "What he did was terrible and it backfired on Rangers because it looked as if the referee tried to even it up by sending Bougherra off." http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/rangers/2009/05/18/rangers-star-madjid-bougherra-needs-linesman-s-change-of-heart-to-play-in-spl-showdown-86908-21368323/

by Ronnie Cully THE SFA today confirmed they are studying video footage of Glenn Loovens' challenge on Maurice Edu during Saturday's Old Firm game. If the initial investigation into the incident - which occurred just before half time - throws up evidence that the Celtic defender has a case to answer, the matter will be forwarded to the Video Review Panel. But this step would only be taken if referee, Craig Thomson, confirmed it was not an incident which he believed he saw and dealt with at the time. advertisement Edu fell to the ground when Loovens' appeared to make contact with his left knee after the Dutchman had cleared the ball. The Rangers midfielder was forced to leave the field for lengthy treatment before returning to complete the match. Loovens was not one of the six players booked during Saturday's game, and has not been suspended since arriving at Celtic from Cardiff in the summer. But he now faces an anxious wait to discover if he is about to face retrospective action buy the authorities. With Stephen McManus already out for the remaining three league games following surgery last week on his damaged knee, and Darren O'Dea limping out of the game at the weekend, Celtic would be stretched to the limit in the central defensive area if they were now to lose Loovens to suspension. http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/display.var.2507441.0.0.php

WALTER SMITH is fuming after finding out why Madjid Bougherra was sent off after today's 2-1 victory over Aberdeen at Ibrox. Linesman Graham Chambers informed the Gers gaffer that he felt the Algerian deliberately kicked Dons' keeper Jamie Langfield in the head after the pair collided going for a 50/50 challenge. Smith insists the explanation was 'incredible' and was unsure if the club could appeal the decision. Madjid Bougherra and Jamie LangfieldHe said: "To be honest I don't know if we can do that. "There was a couple of things in the media during the week that suggests they need to get a review panel together before looking at sending offs. "According to our lads nothing will happen until next season which is obviously not much good to anybody. "But whatever happens it was an incredible sending off. "I have seen both red cards and first of all I have to say I was disappointed with my own player's reaction to Aberdeen's. "I didn't think there was any great contact at all and I will need to have words with Kyle. "But the second sending off is incredible. "The linesman has stated to me that the player deliberately kicked the goalkeeper in the head which I find absolutely incredible. "It meant we lost a player for the majority of the game for a circumstance that was not the case." Bougherra's sending off is the second controverial decision against Rangers in the space of four days after Nacho Novo's goal against Hibs was disallowed when it appeared to cross the line.

Celtic striker Scott McDonald's challenge on Dundee United's Lee Wilkie has been referred to the Scottish FA's review panel. More...

Henry McLeish calls on supporters to play an active role as he launches a "thorough and extensive" review of Scottish football. More...

CELTIC chiefs were seething last night after the SPL handed Rangers a third home showdown with third-place Hearts following the split. Record Sport understands the champions feel their arch rivals have been given a huge advantage in the battle for the title when it emerged they will host the Jambos at Ibrox next weekend. Rangers have been to Tynecastle just once this season, losing 2-1 in November, while the Hoops feel aggrieved they have already had to make two trips to Edinburgh. Gordon Strachan's men must negotiate tricky post-split away fixtures to Aberdeen, Easter Road and Ibrox while Rangers head on the road to Hibs and Dundee United on the final day of the season. A Celtic insider said: "All we are asking for is an even playing field." Fans chief Peter Rafferty was also shocked having heard the fixtures and has called for the SPL to review the way in which it decides the post-split games." The secretary of the Association of Celtic Supporters Clubs said: "That is pretty unusual it's got to be said, though I know it happened a few seasons ago when we faced Dundee three times at Celtic Park. "But I thought it would have been at Tynecastle. The whole thing needs reviewing because there is a problem with these fixtures. "We are just looking for a fair crack of the whip and a level playing field and that has not happened." Twelve months ago Rangers were up in arms when the club were forced to cram in their final four matches in the space of eight days. The SPL ignored pleas from the Ibrox outfit for a longer SPL extension due to their involvement in the UEFA and Scottish Cup Finals. However, this time around the Rangers Supporters Trust believe both sides of the Old Firm have been treated fairly following the publication of the post-split fixtures. Trust spokesman David Edgar said: "It looks a pretty even fixture list against the best teams in the diivision." "Rangers' final game of the season at Tannadice and I don't know how anybody can say that is beneficial. "Both teams have five games to play including the final Old Firm match at Ibrox and the best team will win the title." Edgar believes the only way to avoid the ritual end of season squabling is to scrap the controversial top six setup. He added: "There are going to be fixture anomalies." http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/2009/04/20/celtic-fury-as-split-fixtures-hand-advantage-to-rangers-86908-21291161/

The law may have intervened to smooth the return of Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor to the Rangers fold. Rangers manager Walter Smith this week softened his stance after initially indicating that the pair would not play for the club again. Indefinite suspension is not an option under standard Scottish Premier League player contracts. And the pair returned to training with Rangers on Friday following a two-week ban for misbehaviour with Scotland. Midfielder Ferguson and goalkeeper McGregor were dropped by national manager George Burley because of a drinking session that followed Scotland's World Cup qualifying defeat in Netherlands. They were then suspended for two weeks by Rangers after making V-signs at cameras from the Scotland bench during the following match at home to Iceland. Smith had privately briefed the media that he would not pick the players again for his side. But standard contracts state that clubs can only discipline players through dismissal, warnings or fines of up to four weeks' wages. Players have the right to appeal against these decisions to the SPL. Meanwhile, regulations from world governing body Fifa state that, if players are not given the chance to play, they can invoke a "sporting clause" that allows them to terminate their contract and walk away with their registration. Employment law could yet intervene at international level, Ferguson and McGregor having been told that they would not be chosen for their country again. However, under case law, the players have the right to a fair hearing, the right to be told of the charge in advance and the right to representation. And the procedures adopted by the Scottish FA appear to be open to question. Under normal procedure, this type of hearing has been heard by the governing body's general purposes committee but was instead heard by the board of directors. This could leave open the possibility of an appeal to the Court of Session or Judicial Review. Days after the initial decision, SFA chief executive Gordon Smith had appeared to soften the governing body's line by indicating that it could not be said that they would never play for their country as circumstances could change. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/rangers/8005078.stm

So in a tie that would have been extremely difficult when George Burley had his first choice to call upon, a comprehensive 3-0 defeat for a severely injury depleted side was not entirely unexpected. Indeed the bookies seemed to be expecting such an occurrence. For around half an hour, Burley�s injury ravaged charges were just about holding their own, if not looking entirely comfortable. Indeed Rangers forward Kenny Miller was unable to take the best opportunity of the opening period. The inclusion of the ageing Alexander, whilst expected after Kirk Broadfoot�s withdrawal, was not met with universal approval. Especially with an improving Steven Whittaker and a fit again Alan Hutton included in Burley�s diminished squad. The fears of Alexander�s inclusion were realised after just half an hour into the fixture. Alexander allowed Huntelaar to run in on goal unmarked, with Caldwell having also lost his man, and they were queuing up at the back post to nod into the Scotland net. The Burnley stalwart was a useful servant when fullbacks were hard to come by, but his days in the dark blue must surely be numbered. Impressive results such as defeating the French home and away in the last campaign were built upon a solid defence and a stifling game plan that kept the opposition at bay. So losing a goal so early in the game will have been a hammer blow to our chances. Shocking defending again from Dutch delivery from out wide, this time a corner, effectively sealed the 3 points for Bert van Marwijk�s side. Darren Fletcher allowing Van Persie a free run and header past the stranded McGregor from point blank rage. A thumping Gary Caldwell would halved the deficit, but the French referee (suspended by his own association for poor performance) erroneously ruled out the goal. Almost immediately the Dutch were at the other end and Berra crudely chopped down Huntelaar in the box, before Kuyt put the final nail in the coffin from 12 yards. We will always wonder what might have been had the referee not imagined an infringement when Caldwell towered above the Dutch defence to score, but the truth is Holland were well worth the 3 points and we must instead look ahead to Iceland tomorrow. Alan McGregor did little wrong and had little chance with the Holland gaols and should retain his place in goal with first choice Craig Gordon not playing regular club football. Alan Hutton finished the game at right back and is one of the few players of genuine quality in the Scotland ranks. If Scotland are to retain hope of 2nd place, Burley has to gamble upon the Spurs� fullback�s fitness. McManus is expected to be fit again and will likely return at centre back beside club mate Caldwell for the visit of Iceland. Despite Berra�s rash challenge at the third I feel that may be a little harsh given the Celtic captain�s form this season, but Burley will rely on his greater experience. Naysmith will likely retain the left back spot, largely due to a lack of competition, however he cannot allow dangerous crosses to be fired in as easily as Holland managed at their second goal. This is the part where the match previewer has to read the tea leaves and try to second guess the manager. Will he stick with 4-5-1 or will he try a more adventurous outlook. Whilst watching Miller undertake a thankless task was not unexpected and the right call against the third ranked team in the world. However if we are to achieve second place these are the game we should be looking to win, so a bolder 4-4-2 should be the way forward. After a cynical challenge by De Jong, Ferguson failed to live with the company with which he is so usually comfortable amongst. One wonders if that was the Dutch team�s intentions all along. The captain will be looking for a more commanding display in the engine room at Hampden. Manchester United star Fletcher is still struggling to reproduce club form on the national stage, he too will have something to prove when he takes to the field beside his captain. Gary Teale flitted between both wings on Saturday, but never really produced a telling contribution. I would start the industrious Scot Brown on the right of midfield. His combative style can upset his opponents, but his lack of positional sense and poor distribution would make him a liability when playing as part of only a central pair. On Saturday we were afforded the luxury of Brown in a central role with the craft and ability of Fletcher and Ferguson. However, with the midfield reduced to four we need greater discipline that his team mates will provide. Ross McCormack, one of the few Scotland players to emerge with much credit on Saturday would ideally play upfront after his encouraging attacking display. However, the previously mentioned injury situation may force Burley into deploying the diminutive hitman on the left. Miller had a thankless task as the lone striker and had we been able to deploy McCormack upfront I would have given the no doubt fatigued forward a rest. Unfortunately, the lack of depth in the squad means Miller should retain his place, with substitute Steven Fletcher a likely partner. The Hibs front man showed some glimmers of promise against the Dutch and should find chances easier to come by against our group 9 rivals. A 2-1 victory in Reykjavik, our solitary success so far, should give the team confidence ahead of tomorrow�s tie. Iceland, tied with Scotland in second on 4 points, are also desperate for the points, and a repeat score line is paramount if we are to harbour expectations of World Cup Qualification. The team are capable, the only question is will they produce the goods. Prediction 2-0.

AROUND 20 Rangers staff were last night facing the sack ââ?¬â? as the club cuts costs to beat the credit crunch. Bosses at the debt-ridden club have asked all 200 non-football employees to consider redundancy. The move comes weeks after the Ibrox side FAILED to flog any of its big names during the January transfer window. And only a week after its Ã?£3.9million loss for the second half of last year was blamed on the teamââ?¬â?¢s FAILURE to reach the Champions League. Last month chairman Sir David Murray warned: ââ?¬Å?We have to bring down costs. This financial downturn is a reality check for everyone.ââ?¬Â And last night a club source revealed: ââ?¬Å?There are rumours flying all over the place. ââ?¬Å?No one really knows what state the finances are in. ââ?¬Å?The bosses are said to be looking to shed about 20 jobs, which is a sizeable chunk of the workforce. There isnââ?¬â?¢t much sympathy for the clubââ?¬â?¢s players. ââ?¬Å?David Murray said they may have to take pay cuts. ââ?¬Å?But whatââ?¬â?¢s that when the axe is hovering over the jobs of day-to-day workers who have mortgages to pay?ââ?¬Â The voluntary redundancy offer applies to backroom staff at Ibrox and the clubââ?¬â?¢s Murray Park training ground. Decision In January, Rangers were on the verge of securing a much-needed Ã?£3.8m boost when they accepted Birmingham Cityââ?¬â?¢s offer for top scorer Kris Boyd. Explaining the decision at the time, Mr Murray said: ââ?¬Å?People are asking how bad is it at Rangers? If we did not take this action, it COULD have been bad.ââ?¬Â But the move fell through when Boyd, 25, could not agree personal terms. In the same month, The Scottish Sun told how the club was also considering the sale of captain Barry Ferguson, keeper Allan McGregor or defender Madjid Bougherra to fill the hole in its finances ââ?¬â? but all three stayed at Ibrox. Last week Rangers declared a loss of almost Ã?£4m for the last six months of 2008 ââ?¬â? and blamed the teamââ?¬â?¢s Champions League qualifier loss to lowly Lithuanian minnows Kaunas. M Murray has warned EIGHT first-team stars will be let go this June. Yet last summer he spent Ã?£17m on new players. They included Bougherra (Ã?£2.5m), Pedro Mendes (Ã?£3m), Steven Davis (Ã?£3m), Maurice Edu (Ã?£2.6m), Kyle Lafferty (Ã?£3m), Kenny Milller (Ã?£2m) and Andrius Velicka (Ã?£1m). But last night an Ibrox source insisted the redundancy move was NOT as a result of the clubââ?¬â?¢s failure to flog stars. The insider said: ââ?¬Å?Itââ?¬â?¢s nothing to do with selling players. The club would be looking at their costs anyway.ââ?¬Â A Rangers spokeswoman said: ââ?¬Å?The club is looking at its costs. As part of this review, it is giving staff the option of voluntary redundancy. http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/article2302836.ece

by Ronnie Cully ALL 12 SPL clubs are today anxiously seeking confirmation their TV deal with Setanta Sports is not under threat after it was reported the satellite broadcaster want to renegotiate their �£150million contract with the English FA. The Irish-based company have a deal with the SPL worth �£54.5m which runs until 2010, and last year agreed a new contract worth �£125m which is set to extend until 2014. However, after losing the rights to one of the two packages of Premier League matches in the latest round of bidding, concerns have grown about Setanta's ability to hold on to subscribers. Now, with reports claiming they have delayed making a scheduled �£10m payment on their contract with the English FA, and that they want to hold talks to renegotiate the terms of that four year-deal, fears are multiplying within the Scottish game. advertisement The new SPL contract which was announced last summer was heralded at the time by executive chairman Lex Gold as a major breakthrough for the Scottish game. He said: "It's the biggest-ever TV deal in Scottish football history. This will allow clubs to re-invest to make the Scottish game even stronger. "Ten years ago, we spoke about delivering a brighter future for Scottish football. "Today, as we look ahead to our next 10 years, we can do so with confidence. We look forward to working with them (Setanta) to continue building and developing our league." That confidence is now under pressure as the credit crunch bites. The BBC also has a contract with the SPL until 2012 for match highlights on TV and online on the BBC Sport website. But it would be a massive blow to every SPL club if there was even a delay in any of the payments from the deal they have with Setanta. And assurances will be swiftly sought that there will not be any disturbance to the cash flow. Alarm bells started to ring when Setanta's management last month ordered a major review of their business after they lost the rights to one of their Premiership packages. A Setanta source last night attempted to reassure subscribers and contract partners that they can survive this blow and that they will meet their commitments. They also have deals with the Premier League, the Indian Premier League, and the US PGA Tour and with Premier Rugby that starts next year. ITV - who, like Setanta, have a contract with the English FA - are also reported to be seeking to reschedule payments on their �£275m deal. http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2493031.0.0.php

Competition/Book Details here - http://www.newsnow.co.uk/A/327011336?-11344 Excellent Book Review by CammyF here - http://www.newsnow.co.uk/A/327011337?-11344 Buy Book via our friends at Birlinn Books here - http://birlinn.co.uk/book/details/Silver-Smith-9781841587530/ Thanks for Birlinn for their continued superb support of Gersnet! PM me your answer before the end of the month to be in a with a chance of winning one of five copies of this book! Just tell us in what year did Walter Smith first become Rangers manager?

WALTER SMITH is hopeful that any findings from a prospective Scottish football think tank are acted upon in a bid to improve things in the game in this country. Ally McCoist and Walter SmithFormer First Minister Henry McLeish will head a panel that is set to review a number of issues in the game including a possible restructure of the league and a winter shutdown. But with experience of a number of similar initiatives Smith believes that the success of any such group is based on its ability to implement its findings. He said: "If we are having another think tank I would like us to act on some of the things we find. We've have three or four already but to me football looks the same as it did before we had those. "So if we are going to do it again and we're going to make improvements through the findings then we should act on them and that's not something that we've done in my years in Scotland. "I don't have a particular element that I'd change but I'd hope it's not another one where we waste everyone's time." Recent suggestions have also seen the prospect of a longer half time break and the introduction of player quotas with a necessity for six home grown players in a team's starting line up. Walter SmithThey are changes that Smith feels would make little difference to the game as it stands. He added: "I don't think quotas would be a great disadvantage now. It may have been a few years ago when we had a fair number of foreign players. "But we have a fair base of Scottish players now so I don't think it would be a major disadvantage. "It would just mean that the country would be under a pressure to keep producing a level of player that would satisfy all the teams. "As for half time I thought we were having 20 minute ones now! As long as they make the 20 minute half time last 20 minutes and not the 10 minute half time that runs to 18 minutes at the moment that's fine. "At 20 I think we would maybe need a warm up before the second half but I think football is fine at the moment so I don't see that it needs to be messed around with to be honest."

Head of politics and education at Fifpro, Tony Higgins, has backed the appointment of Henry McLeish to chair a review of Scottish football. More...

Former Scottish First Minister Henry McLeish says he is delighted to be appointed as the new Scottish Football Review Committee. More...

Silversmith ââ?¬â?? The Biography of Walter Smith ââ?¬â?? Neil Drysdale (Birlinn ââ?¬â?? http://www.birlinn.co.uk) I had been looking forward to reading and critiquing this book for sometime and have to say that, in the main, Neil Drysdale doesnââ?¬â?¢t disappoint. His biography of Walter Smith is excellently written, well put together, historically correct (unlike some official publications) and is an honest assessment of the ex and current incumbent Rangers manager. There are a few minor complaints regarding the content of this book (which Iââ?¬â?¢ll cover later) but overall, this is a fantastic read and I would recommend the book to all Rangers supporters. Walter played for and was Dundee UTDââ?¬â?¢s assistant manager under Jim McLean and has also managed Everton and Scotland, however, as the vast majority of his managerial career was served at Ibrox, the book dedicates most of its pages to his two stints as Rangers manager. The book also serves as a brilliant insight into the ââ?¬Ë?privateââ?¬â?¢ aspects to Walter Smithââ?¬â?¢s characteristics which have served him well in his professional career. When reading about Walterââ?¬â?¢s Calvinistic views and ideals, his strong family ties and his love for Rangers Football Club, it is easy to see why he treasures his time at Rangers and as well as treasuring our traditions and history, he also installs these great values into anyone and everyone who is employed at Ibrox. The book starts in poignant fashion as it details the happenings in and around Ibrox on the day of the Ibrox disaster where 66 of our brethren were tragically killed whilst watching The Rangers. Walter Smith was in attendance that day and the events and aftermath of this tragedy stayed with him forever. This opening chapter is brilliantly written and is worth purchasing the book for in itself. Whilst reading any account of that tragic day, I always get goose-bumps and a lump in my throat. Drysdales account is no different. The book then goes on to tell of Walters playing career that saw him play for junior football with Ashfield whilst serving his time as an electrician. He then played professionally for Dundee United and Dumbarton. In his earlier career with Dundee United, Walter also held down a fulltime job as an electrician. After playing 250 games for Dundee United he was invited onto the coaching staff by then manager Jerry Kerr who coincidently, played for Rangers after the 2nd World War. The book also gives an insight into how Walter missed the opportunity to move to Ibrox when Jim McLean refused the Rangers managers job the subsequently led to the return of Jock Wallace and then the Souness revolution, which Walter Smith would play a hugely influential part. As youââ?¬â?¢d expect, the vast majority of the book is dedicated to the Souness revolution and the nine-in-a-row era. This vastly successful part of our history is well documented, but again, Drysdale manages to document the successes whilst also questioning the obvious failings during this period. Near constant failure in Europe, an ageing team kept together which limped to 9-in-a-row and failed in itââ?¬â?¢s quest to achieve 10-in-a-row. All of the detail is in the book, all major games discussed and all through the book, events are punctuated with interviews / comments with the main protagonists. As I said in the opening of this review, there are a couple of minor points that concerned me and these are the old sectarianism chestnut. In the book, the Mo Johnston signing is detailed as is the outpouring of sectarianism for a tiny minority of Rangers supporters. To his credit, Drysdale does mention the fact that only 1 solitary season ticket book was handed back. However, all the furore surrounding the MoJo signing is blamed (mainly) on the Rangers support. There is no mention of the fact that MoJoââ?¬â?¢s family were attacked and his father assaulted by Celtic supporters. No mention that Johnston cannot return to the country of his birth due to ongoing death threats he receives from Celtic fans. Another contentious subject that is glossed over (it merits two lines in the book) was the vile racist abuse Mark Walters received on signing for Rangers both at Parkhead on his debut, then the following week at Tynecastle. There is also no mention of the fact that the racist abuse wasnââ?¬â?¢t consigned to the terraces with Walters being subjected to racist abuse on the pitch as well. There are also the tenuous and tedious remarks regarding Andy Goramââ?¬â?¢s unfounded links to the UVF. As I said, none of this should take anything away from the book, just something that I thought should be raised. After detailing Walters stints as Scotland and Everton manager, the tale end of the book looks at last seasons quadruple attempt which ultimately fell tantalizingly short. The author is obviously supportive of our attempts to have the season extended and puts in print what most of us think of Scotlandââ?¬â?¢s governing bodies. Walter Smithââ?¬â?¢s and Martin Bainââ?¬â?¢s public comments regarding this, and Celtics shameful approach to our request is also highlighted and supported. All in all this was a fantastic read and one that I would recommend to one and all. If asked to rate this book, I would say 8 out of 10. In closing the cover of the book states that this biography is ââ?¬Ë?a timely portrait of a man chiselled in the traditions of Rangersââ?¬â?¢ and the book certainly does deliver on this promise and it is hard after reading this book to argue that Walter Smith isnââ?¬â?¢t ââ?¬Ë?one of usââ?¬â?¢. I closing, I will quote Walter Smith; ââ?¬Ë?This Club is different; This club is Rangers Football Clubââ?¬â?¢ and the author ; ââ?¬Ë?It doesnââ?¬â?¢t matter how tough the task has proved, because Smith strives under scrutiny and being presented with challenges at Ibrox, the place where he and his grandfather thrilled to the sight of blue-clad warriors giving their all for what they sincerely believed to be the greatest club in the world. And, as Walter Smith will tell you, Rangers remain just thatââ?¬â?¢. Cammy F

In conjunction with our friends at Vision Sports Publishing, we have two copies of the following fantastic book available to win. The Rangers Miscellany By Robert McElroy Why are Rangers really nicknamed the Light Blues (it's not because of the colour of their shirts)? In which year did the club win every single one of its league matches? Find out in the all new Rangers Miscellany. Packed with stats, facts, lists, quotes and stories from the rich and illustrious history of the famous Glasgow club, this neat and fully illustrated hardback book also includes a full colour kits section, a complete history of the club's home and away kits. Buy here via the Vision Sports website. To be in with a chance of winning one of 2 copies of this superb book, please pm me with the name of the player who scored Rangers first goal of 2009. Entries accepted until midnight on 31st January. Admin decision is final. Book Review by Pete After being asked to review 'The Rangers Miscellany', the wait for it hitting the floor behind the letterbox seemed to take an age. One week to be exact. Extracting it from the packaging, a blue hardback book with a red binding and white lettering emerged. 'The Rangers Miscellany' is a book written by Robert McElroy, who is the editor of The Rangers Historian magazine. The book starts with a foreword by John Greig MBE who gives a short summing up of his Rangers career. His foreword ends with ââ?¬Å?This is more than a football club, it is an Institution that means so much to so many people worldwide. Even today more than half-a-century after I first gazed on the imposing faÃ?§ade that is the main stand at Ibrox Stadium it still gives me a thrill every time I turn into Edmiston Drive.ââ?¬Â These are Great words from a great man, with a true Rangers heart. The book is precisely what the title suggests, a fascinating collection of facts, statistics, quotes and short stories. It includes many stories of past Rangers legends, from Tom Vallance(1873-84) through to Ally McCoist(1983-98) and Richard Gough(1987-98). Many of the legends are still household names even today. Some of our greatest European nights are also relived, including our Cup Winners' Cup win in Barcelona. Rangers Managers are highlighted from William Wilton to Walter Smith and a history of our stadiums from turning up early at Flesherââ?¬â?¢s Haugh to claim the pitch, to having the most modern stadium in Europe. These main topics are surrounded by a collection of miscellaneous facts, figures and quotes. This is not a book that you have to torture yourself to put down in my opinion. In fact after a number of pages my head was so swimming in facts and figures that I just had to put it down. It is more like a whisky you have to sip rather than a beer you can guzzle down. This is a book for the connoisseur of Rangers history. I enjoyed the book as I can relate to many of the names and stories through my own experiences and the stories of my father. I do believe it is a book for the supporter who is interested in our clubs history. Not for someone who wants an enthralling, suspenseful read. Nonetheless it makes for an excellent companion and you'll find yourself enjoying the trivia when in the company of fellow fans!

WHO, in their right mind, seriously expected bigger attendances for this weekâ��s Co-operative Insurance Cup semi-finals? I reckon that every paying punter should have been given a gold medal. Rangers v Falkirk pulled in more fans than watched Premiership contenders Liverpool at Wigan on Wednesday. The following night Celtic and Dundee United, with Scott MacDonald scoring the decisive penalty, above, drew a bigger crowd than the midweek Portsmouth- Aston Villa match despite live, terrestrial TV coverage. Set against the bigger picture, the Co-op Cup is an irrelevance. It lost its sparkle the moment its winners were denied a place in Europe but in these dire financial straits football needs every thin dime it can get. We should be on our knees thanking the insurance giant for its continued support of our game. For over a year, the SFA failed to hook a sponsor for its own flagship Scottish Cup before Glasgow entrepreneur Willie Haughey stepped in to save it. Football sponsorship will be the first casualty as the multi-nationals battle for survival. Be in no doubt, this game of ours is in a bad way. Every club in the country is in uncharted water. This is no ordinary credit squeeze and those who believe weâ��ll still have 42 senior clubs standing by this time next year need counselling. Even Carol Vorderman would struggle to make sense of Hearts' balance sheet Face facts, there will be no government bail out of Scottish football. In the current financial climate it will be every club for itself. When we see Sir David Murray is prepared to jeopardise Rangersâ�� title hopes by selling one of his best players in mid-season then we should all recognise the gravity of the situation. This week there was talk of Livingston players striking after their wages failed to appear in the bank on time. It was a carbon copy of events at Tynecastle earlier in the season. Even Carol Vorderman would struggle to make some sense of Heartsâ�� balance sheet as owner Vladimir Romanov continues to pile up the debts. But if Livi and the Jambos were the first to show signs of distress, they wonâ��t be the last. With sounder leadership in the past, Scottish football would be in better shape to get through this, but weâ��re reaping what has been sown for decades. Take that poor Hampden surface the other night. Those criticising the groundstaff or stadium director David Kells are missing the point. The pitch is poor because the amateurs of Queenâ��s Park are the only people who have the right to use it. Everyone else, including our international football team, pays through the nose for the privilege. We shovelled millions of pounds of taxpayersâ�� cash into rebuilding the ground but then we allowed Queenâ��s to keep the title deeds. You honestly couldnâ��t make it up. It might be called the National Stadium but it no more belongs to the nation than Harrods does. In a deal that would make the eyes water the SFA originally agreed to pay �£22million over 20 years for office space and use of the pitch! Not that the SFA ultimately represents the biggest threat to Scottish football. That distinction goes to the SPL, a private members club which is clearly no longer fit for purpose. Their manifesto promised to foster youth development. FAILED! They're doing their best to sink Scotland's World Cup hopes They promised supporters a better standard of football. FAILED! Better value for money? FAILED! Their only success was in driving clubs into the hands of banks through the 10,000 seat rule. Currently, theyâ��re doing their best to sink Scotlandâ��s World Cup hopes by kicking off the SPL season just days before George Burleyâ��s boys travel to Norway. Well done Lex Gold, take a bow. There is so much wrong with the game you wouldnâ��t know where to start, but start we must. Itâ��s several weeks since SFA president George Peat promised a major review of Scottish football. Independently chaired, it was to include all the relevant parties for the common good of the game. Since then we havenâ��t heard a cheep. If this was a throwaway soundbite to earn Peat some kudos he should be strung up. We donâ��t have time on our side. Half empty grounds and mudbath pitches will be the least of our worries unless Hampdenâ��s sixth floor gets its act together. More than a decade ago Fergus McCann told us Scotland couldnâ��t support more than 20 senior football clubs. Thereâ��s every chance heâ��s about to be proved right. http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/scottish/scottish_sport/150637/For-credit-crunch-read-meltdown.html

After Big_Spliffââ?¬â?¢s fantastic article yesterday, I felt it was important to write this report while his general point of improving the match-day experience was still fresh in peopleââ?¬â?¢s minds. http://www.gersnetonline.co.uk/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=735&Itemid=2 I doubt any Rangers fan would disagree with me in saying that in recent years the overall experience of attending a home match has steadily worsened. Not just from an atmospheric point of view but the overall quality of the service. Poor quality catering, aggressive stewarding/policing, lack of atmosphere, aging stadium, poor facilities outwith the stadium, awful shop, lack of security in the locus, terrible sound system, broken jumbotrons ââ?¬â?? we could be here all day, so Iââ?¬â?¢ll stop there. OK, criticisms made; how can we improve; how can we set the standard? Letââ?¬â?¢s start at the beginning and go through a typical match-day. Personally, like thousands of other fans, I go to most games along with a few mates. We live well outside of Glasgow so we leave early to ensure we miss any traffic problems and get through early enough to enjoy the afternoon. We have a few hours to spare and money to spend so whatââ?¬â?¢s on offer once we arrive? An official Rangers restaurant/cafÃ?© selling reasonably priced food ââ?¬â?? no. An official Rangers pub selling quality beer with organised entertainment ââ?¬â?? no. A museum where we can take our children, learn more about the club and educate away/foreign supporters ââ?¬â?? no. A few spacious shops with a range of different products relevant to the club ââ?¬â?? no. Entertainment and comfortable facilities inside the ground to get fans in early and build up the atmosphere ââ?¬â?? no. What do we have at our disposal then? A couple of burger/pizza bars and vans with no association to the club. A few local pubs ââ?¬â?? full to capacity - with only one or two accepting children. No museum to find out more about the club. One medium-sized, over-full shop with no space and a minimal effort at providing merchandise. A dirty, aging stadium with over-priced tepid food and minimal effort to entice you in early. Is it any wonder we have thousands of people milling around the place looking lost and bored? Welcome to Ibrox indeed! Now, I do think it would be unfair to suggest the club donââ?¬â?¢t recognise some of these issues. Recent improvements have been made: the stadium has been cleaned and painted in parts; Bar72 seems to be popular (if unaffordable for most bears); reports have been made into further extensions; corporate hospitality is adequate; and the club have tried to mimic singing section displays on the odd occasion. Unfortunately, this is as far as the budget seems to reach. But finance alone surely isnââ?¬â?¢t the only problem here? After all the stadium catering is already outsourced for what I assume is an acceptable fee. Why not do the same with other services? Iââ?¬â?¢d be surprised if certain pub/restaurant chains wouldnââ?¬â?¢t be interested in a development outside Ibrox. Argyle House already seems to do good business so imagine a larger version of that open most days which incorporates a museum. Iââ?¬â?¢m told the Hampden football museum cost less than Ã?£2million to build and recouped the money within 18months. For a wee bit more, surely we can put together the kind of finance to offer something similar and better? I also know the current administration views the stadium (e.g. the blue room//trophy room/changing rooms etc) as a museum in itself. Of course a tour should be part of any package but surely it can be based in a stand-alone building to maximise revenue? Attach a good value restaurant/pub then we have a museum that caters for all and would be an excellent daily tourist attraction ââ?¬â?? never mind a suitable supporter hub on match-days. The refurbished ââ?¬Ë?Wee Rangers Clubââ?¬â?¢ has shown what can be done on an affordable budget. Rangers should be able to do even better. The stadium corporate hospitality generally seems well thought of but a lower-price, more accessible alterative is undoubtedly required. To coin a phrase:ââ?¬â?¢ build it and they will comeââ?¬â?¢. Moving onto inside the stadium, again communication with the fans should be paramount. We pay upwards of Ã?£400 a season; Ã?£23+ a game for our tickets so surely our opinion counts? Yet, when are we ever asked to contribute - other than surveys to see if weââ?¬â?¢d pay double the price for a leather seat with small screen to bet? Martin Bain is often at pains to describe us as customers; so more chance to offer feedback would be nice. Related to this point is the one of security. All too often now overzealous stewards and police appear desperate to confront fans for the smallest of things. Harmless banners, gesturing to opposition supporters, swearing or singing the latest non-politically correct chant amongst other stuff. Fair enough, football isnââ?¬â?¢t just about tribalism and stressed working class men but neither should it be sanitised to the point where people are being driven away. There is a fine line so why not ensure it isnââ?¬â?¢t crossed via dialogue, regular meetings and assisting the general public with information on the alleged crimes they are supposedly committing? Not to mention actually ensuring our property is safe while we do watch the game. Just how far is Helen Street police station from Ibrox again? First point of contact in this situation should be the singing sections and fan groups. From the Blue Order to the Club Deck Loyal to the Union Bears and the East Enclosure sections; there are a range of fans ready and willing to work with the club security (and each other) to find common ground. Yet, we have them dotted around the stadium minimising the effect they have. Surely, one large singing section would be more agreeable. Obviously it might not be easy to find a suitable location given many fans wouldnââ?¬â?¢t want to move but it could be investigated surely? As should a standing section ala teams in the German league. Make the singing section a focal point ââ?¬â?? not a dot at the back of a stand suggesting they are an inconvenience or an embarrassment. All the above isnââ?¬â?¢t rocket science. It is just a general outline of where improvement could readily be found on an affordable, exciting level. Iââ?¬â?¢m sure we all have our own ideas which could be put forward. I also appreciate some of the difficulties within these suggestions ââ?¬â?? cash flow; space; staffing; time etc etc. However, these obstacles are far from insurmountable and we should challenge ourselves to face these challenges and improve. Rangers FC led the way in stadium development last century and Ibrox Stadium is still a place we can be proud of. But itââ?¬â?¢s not perfect and, coupled with the overall drab experience, the club are testing the patience and loyalty of fans by offering a product that, with every passing season, seems poor value for money. As we enter a worldwide two year recession, attempting to retain over 40,000 season ticket holders will take more than a lukewarm burger, a wet seat and a policeman desperate to arrest you for the temerity to back your team. In conclusion, the club should commission and facilitate a review of the match-day experience based on research and best practice elsewhere in the UK and beyond. Of course, supporters groups could lead this and, as weââ?¬â?¢re doing via this project, provide initial feedback to the club, leading to prioritisation and feasibility studies etc. The standard must be set. Improvement must be sought. Itââ?¬â?¢s time to welcome the supporters back to their home.

RANGERS have won their appeal over Sasa Papac's red card in Saturday's 3-1 win over Falkirk and he is now free to play at Aberdeen this weekend. Referee Willie Collum looked at the incident again and decided that it should not have been an instant dismissal after Papac challenged Falkirk substitute Mark Stewart on the halfway line. The matter will now be referred to the Review Panel who will decide if a yellow card should be issued instead. The Panel, which consists of an ex-referee, an ex-manager and an ex-player, is due to meet before the end of the week. If it decides that a yellow card is appropriate then three points will be added to Papac's disciplinary record. He currently has 12 points and would therefore move to 15 which is three short of the threshhold where suspension kicks in. It's a welcome boost for manager Walter Smith as Papac has been one of the most consistent performers in the side this season. http://www.rangers.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,5~1527618,00.html

FROM THE SFA:- Falkirk FC�s Claim of Wrongful Dismissal in respect of the sending off of its player Patrick Cregg in the match against Rangers FC on 17th January has been dismissed, following a review by referee William Collum. Having reviewed the circumstances of the player's sending off, the referee indicated that he is content with his decision and, in accordance with the Disciplinary Procedures, the Claim is dismissed automatically. In explanation of the referee's decision, the following definition of serious foul play as detailed in the FIFA Laws of the Game is provided: "Any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with excessive force and endangering the safety of an opponent is guilty of serious foul play." Cregg will be suspended for Falkirk FC's next match against Motherwell FC on 24th January. The player has also incurred a 1 match fixed suspension with effect from 31st January as a result of his breaching the 18 disciplinary point threshold.

By Andrew Dickson WALTER SMITH will wait until his loan Rangers return to the club before deciding whether they have a role to play in his Light Blues squad. A number of Ibrox players have been sent out to other clubs in the first half of the season and many of them are due to come back at various points this month. Andy WebsterThe most high-profile of those who have been away is Andy Webster, but he has not played as much as Smith would have liked him to at Bristol City. Defender Webster has made just six appearances for Gary Johnson's side, although the main reason for that has been a string of minor injuries. Alan Gow has arguably been the most successful player during this term's sabbaticals and he has scored five goals in 17 appearances for Championship side Blackpool. But given he had just two first-team outings last season at Rangers, he has been tipped to make a hasty exit when he moves back to Glasgow. The rest of those who have gone elsewhere are young reserve players and the likelihood is they'll go back to Gers' reserve and youth sides or go out on loan again. But Smith insists he'll only make decisions of each individual's future once they check back in at Murray Park in the next few weeks. He said: "In Andy's case, we put him out on loan to try to get him games so that he could get to a level of fitness that would lead to him returning to our squad.Alan Gow "It hasn't worked out like that and he has had a couple of injuries again and hasn't been playing on a regular basis. "Andy's problem is that we have to get him up to speed because he's had something like two years without regular first-team football. "He has been lucky to play half a dozen games in that time and it has not been an easy spell for him. "We will see what happens when he comes back and we'll review the situation then. Alan Gow is the same, as are the rest of the players we've had out. "With these players who are coming to us, as is part and parcel of the transfer window, we'll have to look at a larger group of players and cut it down."

Jan 2 2009 By Keith Jackson RANGERS were given the perfect New Year's Day pick-me-up last night when Kevin Thomson revealed his career-saving operation has been a complete success. Thomson went under the knife in London on Hogmanay to finally have his shattered left knee rebuilt - two months after it was mangled during an SPL clash at Rugby Park. Record Sport can reveal the surgery had to be delayed after doctors spotted a life-threatening blood clot which had formed on Thomson's left calf. The stricken 24-year-old was finally given the all clear to go under the knife last week and jetted down south on Tuesday to put his career in the hands of Dr Andrew Williams, Britain's top knee injury specialist. And yesterday, in an exclusive interview with Record Sport from his hospital bed, Thomson revealed the surgery went so well he was back walking within a couple of hours of leaving the theatre. He said: "I know it might not sound like the ideal way to spend Hogmanay - lying in a hospital bed on my own in London pumped to the eyeballs with morphine - but I could not have wished for better news. "After everything I've been through in the last couple of months I'm just delighted to be here. "It's gone better than any of us had expected. The surgeon thought when he opened me up he would have to repair both my medial ligaments and maybe my cartilage. "But because of complications we had to delay the operation and that gave me time to do a lot of physiotherapy. "I worked hard and it seems the medial ligaments have repaired themselves as a result. "That meant all the doc had to do was concentrate on building a new interior ligament, which was obviously always going to be the most important part. "It seems to have gone well because I already have movement back in the joint and I've been up walking already. I can't tell you how good that felt." Thomson now hopes to be back in full training at Murray Park before the rest of his Ibrox team-mates report back for a not her punishing pre-season. He said: "That's the plan. The surgeon is extremely happy with the way it's gone and says there is no reason why I can't be back in six months. "I've been through this once before and I'm not naive enough to think there won't be a hiccup or two along the way but I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to be back as soon as possible. "July is seven months away so with a bit of luck I should have a good four or five weeks of training under my belt by the time the rest of the lads come back in from their holidays. "I've not been the luckiest of boys so far with injuries but I'm due a bit of luck and touch wood I'll get it in the New Year. "There's a long way to go but all I can think about is pulling on that shirt again and getting on with my Rangers career." Meanwhile, Ibrox boss Walter Smith will assess whether Andy Webster and Alan Gow have a place in his plans when they return this month after loan spells at English Championship sides. Webster has spent the first half of the season at Bristol City, where it was hoped he would be able to build on his fitness after suffering a series of injuries. But he picked up several minor knocks and made just six appearances during his spell at Ashton Gate. Gow had a reasonably successful stint at Blackpool, scoring five goals in 17 games. Smith said: "We'll see what happens when they come back and review the situation." http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/2009/01/02/exclusive-new-year-all-clear-for-kevin-thomson-after-career-saving-operation-86908-21009845/