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By Andrew Dickson SASA PAPAC and Kenny Miller are hopeful of returning to the Rangers squad for Sunday's trip to face Hibernian at Easter Road. Sasa Papac and Willo FloodBosnian defender Papac missed last weekend's 3-1 win over Motherwell with a gash in his foot, an injury sustained against St Mirren on April 8. He trained normally at Murray Park this morning and looks likely to be passed fit to feature in the capital. Whether he comes straight back into the squad is another matter, however, as Steven Whittaker did well in his left-back position against the Steelmen. One option could be to move Whittaker onto the left side of midfield against his old club but it appears Steven Smith has done enough to retain his place in the team. The 23-year-old made his first appearance in 51 weeks last Saturday and showed plenty of good touches - if a little rustiness too - in his 73-minute outing. Smith was deployed in the same position against Aberdeen's reserves in midweek and scored a penalty in a 2-1 win at Auchenhowie. That impressed manager Walter Smith and it is understood he'll stay involved in the capital. Stevie SmithMiller has not played since Scotland's 3-0 defeat in Holland last month and his last Gers appearance was two weeks before that in the League Cup final. He has seen a specialist about the hamstring problem which has been hindering him lately and he has reached a point where he could be ready to play once more. That comes as good news to boss Smith as he looks for competition to fit strikers Kris Boyd, Nacho Novo and Andrius Velicka. Kirk Broadfoot, Lee McCulloch, DaMarcus Beasley, Kyle Lafferty and Kevin Thomson are all out for the crucial clash with the Hibees. But former captain Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor are available for selection again after their two-week suspensions from the club ended. The pair returned to training today but are lacking match sharpness so it seems the best they can hope for are places on the bench.

Back in training, probably just light jogging. Good to see though.

What a difference a couple of weeks make. Even before the clouds began circling over Ibrox after the behaviour of a couple of the club�s biggest stars on international duty, there was a general malaise and negativity down Govan way. Having let a lead in the SPL slip, with Celtic stretching their advantage at the top to 3 points overturning a 10 goal deficit in the goal difference and taking the league title out of our hands, even accounting for the remaining Old Firm match at Ibrox. This was followed up with a lacklustre defeat in the CIS cup. Finally all the excitement and hype of last season�s enthralling chase for four trophies had ebbed away. Questions are continually asked of Smith�s tactics and of team formations and line ups. Summer signings are under increasing scrutiny. So the last thing we needed was the suspension of the club captain and the number 1. A squad decimated by injuries to Thomson, Lafferty, Miller and Papac amongst others. Without so many key performers how could we possibly halt the relentless march of Strachan�s side to another title? Therein lies the problem with objectively discussing football, especially when it surrounds Scotland�s most successful team. Everything is either rosy, or we facing the apocalypse. There is no in between. When in reality the truth lies somewhere in the middle. There are shades of grey. Whilst all the newspapers column inches were taken up with ex-pros and pundits lining up to take a pop at Ferguson and McGregor, new club captain Davie Weir and his team mates have gone about their business in quiet if unspectacular fashion. Weir�s first opportunity to lead his side out as fully fledge captain, as opposed to the stand in role he has ably filled in the past, resulted in a 1-0 victory. A satisfactory outcome at the end of a difficult week for Rangers Football club. At this stage of the season, every game is about earning the 3 points and not worrying about the manner in which they are achieved. The win at the Falkirk Stadium was the beginning of a welcome return to goal-scoring form of Kris Boyd. After not scoring for 5 games, the prolific hitman has found the back of the net 4 times in the last 3 games and is looking to continue his scoring form in the season run in as we chase league and cup success. Lee McCulloch filled in for Ferguson in his absence against the SPL�s basement club. However injury to the former-Wigan midfielder saw Edu promoted to the role of Pedro Mendes� engine room partner. The young American, having had longer to settle in a new country had looked more composed and has been more involved than in his earlier cameo�s this season. Smith�s injury and suspension ravaged side followed up that victory with a maximum 3 points against another struggling side in St Mirren. The Paisley outfit looked like they were in for a long afternoon when Boyd and then Beasley fired Rangers into an early 2-0 deficit. Much like other recent fixtures, such as the dropped points against Hearts, we failed to kill off McPherson�s side and an Andy Dorman second half strike made for a nervy finish. In truth however St Mirren rarely threatened and another deserved victory was ensured. Even in spite of the opposition, 2 back to back away victories will bread confidence given our away record in recent years. Edu followed up his late appearance against Falkirk with his first goal for the club and a strong performance that led to him being given some spectators motm award. The appalling anti-football tactics of St Mirren, with some tackles more recognised in the Octagon at a UFC event, increased Rangers mounting injury problems with both Papac and Beasley first half casualties. As alluded to at the start of this piece though, along with the imminent return of Lafferty, Papac and Beasley are expected to return in the coming weeks. Andrius Velicka made a second late appearance as a sub as we ran the clock down. Even the Lithuanian himself will no doubt have been surprised to return to the starting line up for the first time this year as we welcomed Mark McGhee�s Cel.... sorry Motherwell to Ibrox. With just 2 minutes on the clock, the big Lithuanian had repaid his manager�s faith with the opening goal and is being picked by some as a surprise starter in the upcoming Old Firm. Not to be undone by his strike partner, Boyd scored for the third match in succession with another goal of the season contender before rounding off the victory with a penalty after Brian McLean felled Mendes in the box. After the international fall out, Smith will have been incredibly pleased to have picked up maximum points. The first time his side have won 3 games in a row since September and he will be looking to extend that run when we travel to Leith on Sunday. Smith will also be pleased in the manner in which Edu has come into the midfield and offered a balance that arguably was missing when Mendes and Ferguson, two players who are excellent going forward but less disciplined defensively, play together. Neil Alexander has stepped in to fill McGregor�s gloves to great effect and it demonstrates the defensive strength of Walter Smith�s squad that such a massive change at a critical stage of the season has barely been worthy of discussion since Alexander first pulled on the gloves against Falkirk. The return of Stevie Smith to offer competition to Papac, who is hoping to be fit for this weekend�s match, is another welcome boost. Smith played in left midfield against Motherwell as Walter looked to ease him back into fold and with the inability of any player to make that position his own, the committed display against our Lanarkshire neighbours should be enough to allow Steven to keep his place this weekend. As had been mentioned earlier on, Boyd�s return to goal-scoring form has come at a vital time with Lafferty and Miller struggling for fitness and Novo and Naismith struggling for form. The Ayrshire hitman is looking to break the 30 goal mark and if he can get near to the 39 he scored the year Eck bought him from Killie there is every possibility that will be enough to secure league flag number 52. The emergence of Velicka from the wilderness could also be important with striking options getting thinner by the week. Added to all of this, the relentless pursuit of victories and 3 points, the return to form of key players and the re-emergence of some of the squad�s forgotten men is the boost of the announcement of the final Old Firm fixture, confirmed for the second post-split fixture on May 9th. This news means that Bougherra�s one match suspension, that rules him out of the opening post split tie will be served when Celtic travel to Govan. The Algerian stopper was unavailable as McDonald took advantage of Kirk Broadfoot�s lack of games in his favoured centre-back role and Celtic ran out 1-0 winners. He was also unable to prevent the 2-0 loss last month. The classy defender has to be the leading candidate for both Rangers and the SPL�s POTY. I, as no doubt most other fans, will be relieved that the Bougherra should be marshalling our back line in the final Old Firm encounter of the year. There are a number of issues still to be addressed at Ibrox and Murray Park, both on the field and in the boardroom. However, recent weeks have shown we have strength in depth of quality within the squad and a strength of character capable of winning this League and the Scottish Cup. If we win the two games prior to the Old Firm, beginning with Hibs this weekend, will take us into the Old Firm knowing a victory at Ibrox will put us in the driving seat for the Championship with all the momentum on our side of the city. The opportunity is there. It is up to Walter Smith, Davie Weir and co. to grasp it with both hands.

RANGERS' injury list is showing no signs of clearing just yet - but a host of stars could be back in action by the time the SPL split begins on May 2. Sasa Papac is the only player of the seven currently sidelined with various ailments who might feature at Hibernian on Sunday. The Bosnian defender is now walking normally again having received stitches in his foot after he had to limp off during the first half of last Wednesday's 2-1 win at St Mirren. He faces a race against time to prove his fitness before kick off at Easter Road but the Light Blues management are hopeful he'll be given the green light to return there. DaMarcus Beasley is more likely to be available again for the Scottish Cup semi-final with St Mirren a week on Saturday and he is out of the trip to Edinburgh. The American is still struggling after sustaining a blow to his ribs in Paisley but he could be cleared to return for the forthcoming rematch with Gus MacPherson's side. Lee McCulloch is another who might play in that game after it emerged his calf problem is not as bad as was first feared. The former Wigan star is making good progress and since coming off in the latter stages of the 1-0 win at Falkirk nine days ago, he has made a notable improvement. Kirk BroadfootKyle Lafferty, who is not yet back in full training despite newspaper reports claiming he is, may play again as early as the home clash with Celtic on May 9. Much depends on how he does when he starts running again but it is hoped he will be able to play some part in the title run-in. As yet, however, there is no timescale being given for when Kenny Miller and Kirk Broadfoot can be expected to come back. Of course, Kevin Thomson will definitely miss the rest of term as he continues his rehabilitation from a knee injury and he'll be back in action after the summer. But the news a number of other players aren't far from being fit again is a further boost for Rangers manager Walter Smith after his patched-up squad won three times last week.

Apr 5 2009 Andy Mcdonald BOOZE shame keeper Allan McGregor was handed a sensational Ibrox lifeline yesterday. And the Sunday Mail can exclusively reveal that Kevin Thomson is to take over from axed Barry Ferguson as Ibrox skipper next season. Keeper McGregor was not expected to play for Rangers again after furious boss Walter Smith dropped him and Ferguson for their Scotland disgrace. Now Smith may be prepared to give McGregor, 27, one final chance to salvage his career - butonly if he grows up. Senior sources at Ibrox yesterday insisted Ferguson will never play for the club again. But the same sources confirmed McGregor could make a sensational return to the first team. One said: "They both deserved everything that came their way after that performance midweek. "Walter's equally furious with them both but he sees McGregor's position differently to Ferguson's. "Barry's burned his bridges but there could still be a way back for McGregor. "Whether he's got the good sense to take it is another matter. Buckle "He's definitely out for the moment. But if he buckles down the door is not locked on him coming back. "He basically has to grow up and get a grip. It's down to him." The cash-strapped club also realise benching one of their prize assets can only reduce his value on the transfer market. The source insisted the only thing that will see him return is a massive change in attitude. McGregor has a history of attracting as many headlines for his colourful private life as his onfield performances. The source added: "It's down to him. Put it this way, Barry's out in the dark but there's a chink of light for McGregor." Ferguson and McGregor saw their careers implode last week after they were benched for a booze bender at the Scotland squad's hotel. Flick They compounded that by flicking the Vs at photographersduring the Iceland game. Ferguson, 31, was stripped of the Rangers captaincy on Friday. We can reveal Smith is ready to hand the captain's armband to midfielder Kevin Thomson when he returns from injury next season. Veteran David Weir will lead Rangers against Falkirk today but Smith believes Thomson is the player to take charge next season when he returns. He has been out since suffering ligament damage in November but is expected back early next season after successful surgery. An Ibrox source said: "There's no doubt Kevin will be captain next season all being well with his knee. "To be frank, there's not a wealth of candidates but he's got the attitude and respect of his team-mates." http://www.sundaymail.co.uk/sport-news/2009/04/05/walter-smith-prepared-to-give-shamed-keeper-allan-mcgregor-ibrox-lifeline-78057-21254880/

Exclusive by Lindsay Herron GAVIN RAE is hoping Stevie Smith can join the growing colony of ex-Rangers at Cardiff City next season - in the Premiership. Chris Burke and Ross McCormack are also regulars with the promotion-chasing side while Stevie Thomson is currently on loan at Burnley. Stevie SmithOut of favour full back Smith has been interesting Bluebirds boss Dave Jones and he travelled to Wales last week. Smith played in a specially-arranged friendly game and had a good discussion with the Cardiff manager. With the window for loan signings in the Championship now closed, Smith is hoping there can be further discussions in the summer. And old team mate Rae will be thrilled if a deal can done AND Cardiff have made it into the top flight. He told Rangers World: "I spoke to Smithy when I heard he was down for a trial and Burkey saw him when he was down. "Obviously the gaffer has a few ex-Rangers players on the books and he seems to have done well with them so it would be great if Stevie could be the next one. "He is a great wee player so hopefully he can come down and join us." Cardiff are nine points behind Alex McLeish's Birmingham, who currently occupy second spot which carries automatic promotion, but they have two games in hand. There are eight games left in the Championship but Cardiff have four in eight days, starting with bitter rivals Swansea on Sunday morning. Rae said: "We are still in a good position. We have not been out of the top six all season and hopefully we don't fall out now. "We have eight games to go so the plan is to go on a run and just go for it.Ross McCormack celebrates his strike for Scotland "We have a heavy schedule of games coming up but that's normal down there. You seem to play more than you train but we are used to it now." Unfortunately, Scotland hero Ross McCormack will be missing for the Bluebirds after being sent off in the last league match - a 3-0 defeat by Sheffield United. However, Rae is in no doubt that he has arrived as an international player. He said: "He has been doing brilliantly for us since he joined and I think he's got it all in his locker. "Playing week in, week out at Cardiff has been a big thing for him and obviously helped him. "There is nothing like making your Hampden debut for Scotland and it was a bit special for Ross. In saying that he was probably our best player against Holland too so to get two man of the match awards and a goal can't be bad."

http://www.gersnetonline.co.uk/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=779&Itemid=2 First off, Iââ?¬â?¢d like to say I think it is too early for anyone to make their choice of the names Rangers have short-listed. However, I think their list is accurate enough (if too long) so before you make your vote, lets have a look through and see if the names mentioned are justified. * Kris Boyd There has been some surprise with regard to the strikerââ?¬â?¢s inclusion on the list. His recent form and general demeanour means Boyd will always be an enigmatic figure amongst the support. Arguments will always be evident between those that accept his poacher status and those that think his attitude detracts from his penalty box prowess. Thereââ?¬â?¢s no doubt though that his goals remain an important part of the Rangers team. As such, his 24 goals this season mean his PotY nomination is understandable ââ?¬â?? even if the goals have dried of late meaning heââ?¬â?¢s unlikely to win the award unless his form picks up dramatically as the season reaches its climax. Nominee rating: 6 * Steven Davis An ever-present on the right side of midfield, the Ulsterman is another player who has contributed well to Rangersââ?¬â?¢ challenge for the title. Intelligence, vision and the ability to score goals from midfield are his main virtues and these have been evident several times this season. However, as with the team generally, he lacks consistency and is often posted missing when the going gets tough ââ?¬â?? particularly in a physical sense. Davis will be another player whoââ?¬â?¢ll be looking to improve his form to have any chance of winning. Nominee rating: 7 * Pedro Mendes If you ask any Rangers fan who their favourite player is, the Portuguese midfielder will be one of the more popular answers. Creative, exciting and capable of scoring wonder goals, Mendes is crucial to any Rangers game heââ?¬â?¢s played. In saying that, since Kevin Thomson picked up his injury last November, Mendes has struggled to show the quality he did in the early part of the season. Sporadic rather than sensational arguably best describes his contribution but when he did pick up an injury last month he was missed. Will he be the one that can play Rangers to the title and attain an SPL medal and PotY award in his debut season? Nominee rating: 6 * Allan McGregor I think it is fair to say that McGregorââ?¬â?¢s inclusion on the short-list is puzzling to many. His form has improved since the start of the season but despite having 12 SPL clean sheets so far, Iââ?¬â?¢d contend that is down to the players in front of him as opposed to the keeper himself. Nonetheless, McGregor remains a vital part of the defence and one of the teamââ?¬â?¢s best assets. Unfortunately, recent international problems have shown that he is another player where his attitude may undermine his career. Nominee rating: 5 * David Weir It is testament to the 38 year oldââ?¬â?¢s longevity that Rangers retain the best defensive record in the SPL. Forming an excellent partnership with Madjid Bougherra, the Scotland international player deserves a lot of credit for his attitude towards the game. His lack of pace and poor distribution are well documented but it is his positioning, timing and organisational skills which seems to bring out the best in his defensive colleagues. Weir is 39 in the middle of May and his consistency of performance certainly makes him a valid candidate for Rangersââ?¬â?¢ PotY. Nominee rating: 7 * Madjid Bougherra Iââ?¬â?¢ve deliberately left whom I feel is the best candidate to last. The big Algerian arrived in the summer as a straight replacement for Carlos Cuellar and, given our European exit to Kaunas, was immediately under pressure to play well. And play well he has done! Indeed, his form has been that good that many Rangers supporters have already forgotten about ââ?¬Ë?King Carlosââ?¬â?¢ and some even rate ââ?¬Ë?Magicââ?¬â?¢ a better player. Certainly whenever he has been missing from the team (see our two losses against Celtic) we have struggled with him. Pacy, strong, aerially competent and not to mention his exciting forward runs, Bougherra has truly been a revelation at the back. As such, unless the above players really go on a run of excellent form, I can see no better contender for Rangersââ?¬â?¢ Player of the Year. Nominee rating: 9

By Andrew Dickson RANGERS could be without THREE first-choice defenders when they play Hearts tomorrow at Ibrox in the SPL. Veteran stopper David Weir will definitely miss out as he is suspended after his red card against Inverness in the last league game earlier this month. Kirk BroadfootBut Kirk Broadfoot and Madjid Bougherra are at risk of joining him on the sidelines as they struggle to overcome injuries in time. Bougherra missed last Sunday's League Cup final against Celtic with a calf knock and he is still seen as a slight doubt. While Broadfoot was able to play in the game at Hampden, he has a problem with his foot and after playing for two hours just five days ago he hasn't totally recovered. Each player will be given the opportunity to show they're fit and able to take part in the crucial clash with the Jambos. But if they're also ruled out, the likes of Lee McCulloch, Christian Dailly and Andy Webster could be summoned to feature at the back. Teenager Danny Wilson, who was on the bench for the recent Scottish Cup tie at St Johnstone, could be another option. Kevin Thomson is the only other confirmed absentee for Gers as he continues his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury. But it's the situation he's faced with in his rearguard which will be causing the most concern to Walter Smith at this stage.

The way this season is panning out has similarites to Smiths final season in the 90s. A team running out of fuel fast! He continues to play guys who have nothing in the tank and players out of position. Although the quality of this team cant be compared to one in the 90s. But silly defeats like at home to Inverness remind me too much of Rugby Park and Pittodrie in 1998. McCulloch, Ferguson and Dailly all on the park/squad ahead of younger and fresher players like Aaron, Edu, Fleck is mind blowing. Ferguson along with Davie Weir is playing too much games. Everyman and his dog can see they arent fit to play every game so should be being used sparingly to get the best out of them, then we might see some better performances from BF rather than someone who isnt even a shadow of what he did 7 years ago. BF should start thinking about Rangers first rather than be an auto pick every game. Surely he must know he is struggling to run games these days. Celtic are no great shakes and I firmly believe if we had Davis and Mendes in the centre midfield they would have pulled the strings a lot better. Novo should have been on the right rather than coming wide left and Dailly coming on is an embarrassment after he hasnt kicked a ball all season. Lee McCulloch continues to be selected in every postion available. He does a ok job defensively by breaking up the odd opposition move but offensively and technically he offers nothing. The league and Scottish cup double is still firmly in our sights but if WS doesnt start to set his teams out with a hint of common sense then we will be runners up all on fronts. He needs to start playing to our strengths and forgetting about the opposition. Right now if we meet Aberdeen in the Scottish cup final id be surprised if WS made any changes from yesterdays 16 players. Next season we need to rid the dead wood once and for all. Mendes is suffering with 'past it' players next to him. He should be the focal point along with Davis, Thomson, Bougherra, Novo, McGregor and Papac for me. The rest aren't at the races. To think we started the season with about 9 strikers but WS still doesnt know who / want to play is concerning. Miller shows promise in some games but thats not good enough, his problem is when he has 1 bad game he will suffer more than the rest. Lafferty is the same, he shows glimpes of skill then shows he has no end product. But i dont think WS is doing any of our strikers favours by switching personnel and formation on a weekly basis. Young Fleck and Aaron are potentially good enough but the way they have been introduced is all wrong and the pressure on them could affect the way they develop. After 3 appearances each, both of these young players are expected to be match winners! Edu and Velicka continue to not feature in games but id rather see these two given some match time before judging. They deserve it more than half the team. We cant win every tournament but id rather see us lose after having a good go at the opposition, then we could hold our hands up and say there wasnt anything else we could do rather then picking the obvious errors that continue to baffle the fans.

By Andrew Dickson RANGERS' players will receive a pre-match boost before Sunday's League Cup final when Kevin Thomson visits them in their dressing room. The Light Blues midfielder has been out of action ever since he suffered a serious knee injury in the 4-0 win over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on November 9. Thomson has been sorely missed in the four months since he was crocked but is making excellent progress in his rehabilitation programme. After a string of gruelling double sessions at Murray Park, he is currently taking a well-earned 10-day break. Thomson will return to the gym next week and remains on course to make his comeback in pre-season as planned. He will attend his first match since he was carried off in Ayrshire when the Old Firm sides clash at Hampden this weekend. Thomson so far hasn't been allowed to go to games because sitting still for so long would hinder his progress. However he has now got to the point where he can watch Gers in the flesh once more and he can't wait to roar them on against Celtic. The 24-year-old said: "I've not been to a game yet since I hurt my knee because sitting in a stand for an hour and 45 minutes isn't the best thing for it. "But I'm starting to get to the stage where I'll be going to each home game and I'll be in the stand watching the boys in this one too. "I've been lucky that most of our games have been on television and from that point of view, I've not missed too much of what the lads have been up to. "But it'll be nice to see them live again. I'm looking forward to the game and I'll be in the changing room to wish everyone all the best beforehand."

by Thomas Jordan Kaunas (a), August 5 2008 Rangers headed to Lithuania on the back of a 0-0 draw at Ibrox but, despite taking the lead, they crashed to a 2-1 defeat in the dying minutes of the game. In the financial terms, the Ibrox club have failed to recover. The �£10m cost of the exit will come back to haunt them in the summer when a leading player is expected to be sold to balance the books. It was a dreadful display from the Rangers players involved and immediately put everyone in a position of power at the club under immense pressure before the domestic campaign had even got off and running. advertisement St Mirren (a), October 5 2008 It was not only their first league defeat at the season but also their first defeat at Love Street in 22 years as St Mirren recorded a shock 1-0 win. Rangers travelled to Paisley with the full length of the SPL table separating the clubs, but a lack of cutting edge in the final third was Rangers' problem. Despite just about having all of the play, the visitors couldn't find a way to open the scoring yet, at the other end of the field, substitute Stephen McGinn netted 12 minutes from time with his team's only purposeful attack of the second-half. Dundee United (h), November 4 2008 Rangers surrendered their place as leaders on goal difference by slipping up at home in the league for the first time in the campaign. Indeed, the Ibrox men ended up requiring an injury-time goal from Kevin Thomson to rescue a point in thrilling 3-3 draw. After taking the lead through Steven Davis, United fought back to storm ahead before Sasa Papac levelled the scoreline. The visitors once again took the lead before Thomson's late equaliser. It wasn't, however, to take them back the top of the table as they slipped two points behind Old Firm rivals Celtic. Aberdeen (a), January 24 2009 With leaders Celtic not playing until later in the day, Rangers were handed a chance to take over top spot for a few hours by beating Aberdeen at Pittodrie. Smith adopted a cautious approach as striker Kris Boyd was left on the bench. Rangers started with just one in attack and Lee McCulloch coming in to occupy a holding midfield role in a 4-5-1 formation. But, despite once again dominating the game for long spells and carving out enough chances to win the game, the visitors had to settle for 0-0. Celtic (a), February 15 2009 Rangers crossed the city to Parkhead in the knowledge that victory would see them leapfrog Celtic into top spot. Once again, Boyd was left on the bench as Rangers went with a similar line-up that drew 0-0 at Pittodrie but with Kyle Lafferty taking over from Kenny Miller as lone striker. In one of the poorest meetings between the two clubs in some time, there was nothing to separate the clubs on the day. It was a missed opportunity for Rangers avoiding defeat at least kept them in the title hunt. Caley Thistle (h), March 4 2009 Back at the top of the table and seemingly enjoying a new lease of life, disaster struck at a most unlikely time. Despite dominating for long spells, there was little in the way of clear-cut chances created and, against the run of play, the visitors won an injury-time penalty after a mistake by Davie Weir. Black secured an surprise 1-0 win for his team. It allowed Celtic, who defeated Kilmarnock 2-1 away form home, to move top on their own right again with a two-point advantage. http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2493865.0.0.php

ARCHIE CAMPBELL has recently watched on as Gers teammate John Fleck forced his way in to Walter Smith's first-team plans and the young striker hopes to follow in his friend's footsteps in the not too distant future. Archie CampbellCampbell has been in electric form for Billy Kirkwood's under-19s this season, scoring 13 goals in 16 starts, and his ability to hit the net has kept his side in the chase for another domestic double. The Fife-born hitman joined Rangers at the tender age of 14 and came through the ranks with Fleck at club and international level. The pair featured for Scotland's U16s in the Victory Shield and were being touted as two of the most promising players in the country at that time. While Fleck has shot to stardom in 2009 Campbell has been continuing his development with the 19s and doing his best to impress so that he can take the next step in his blossoming career. At 17 he has plenty of time on his side but Archie admits he would love to be one of the next players from the under-19 squad to be drafted in to the top-team. He said: "I think the young players at the club have really been given a chance by the manager recently which is great. "Flecky, of course, has been brilliant but we have also seen the likes of Danny Wilson and Jamie Ness on the bench and they are only 17. "I am roughly the same age as them so hopefully if I can keep scoring goals I might get a chance in the future. "We will wait and see what happens but I think there is a big opportunity for all the players right now. Archie Campbell "Flecky has shown what can be achieved if you work hard, show the right attitude and impress the coaches here." Archie's pace and ability to find the net made him a stand-out as he progressed through the ranks at Murray Park. These attributes have again been evident in 2008/09 and he bagged a double against Hamilton Accies on Saturday to add to his impressive tally this season. He said: "I have been pleased with the way I have played this season and hopefully I am improving all the time. "I have managed to get a few goals and still have another year wit the 19s so I am happy with that but I know I need to keep working hard on every part of my game. "Right now I am trying to get stronger by working in the gym with the physios and this will help me a lot on the pitch." Rangers will take on Inverness Caley Thistle in the semi-final stage of the SFA Youth Cup on March 29 after the Highland Jags beat Old Firm rivals Celtic in a dramatic penalty shoot-out at the Tulloch Stadium. The tie will give the Murray Park starlets another chance to run out at Ibrox Stadium and Archie is not surprised to be facing Caley for a place in the final. He said: "I think most people thought that would be up against Celtic but I knew it was going to be a tough game for them. Archie Campbell"Caley made it difficult for us earlier in the season and I am sure they will do that again when they come to Glasgow later in the month. "But we are at home and the holders of the Cup so we will be confident going in to it and have a good chance of going through. "It's great the game is at Ibrox and we all want to get to the final at Hampden. Hopefully we can do that." The 19s have now extended their lead at the top of the league to four points after closest rivals Hibs drew with Celtic and Rangers romped to a 4-0 win over Hamilton on Sunday. Despite having a young squad Archie is confident his team have the quality and character to win the title again this season. He added: "The team have done great so far but we have to keep it going. "We still have a lot of big games coming up and need to have the right attitude going in to every one. "We are a young group of players but we are confident going in to every game and always think we can get three points." The 19s next match is against Dundee United on Saturday at Thomson Park, Dundee, kick-off 1pm.

Feb 27 2009 THE Rangers player involved in one of Scotland' most tragic football accidents was honoured yesterday by his home town. Members of Sam English's family travelled to Northern Ireland as guests of theMayor of Coleraine, to mark the 100th anniversary of his birth. English was involved in a clash with Celtic goalkeeper John Thomson in a match at Ibrox in September 1931. Thomson bravely dived at English's feet, and the goalie's skull was accidentally fractured by the striker's knee. Thomson died later from his injury. Although Engl i sh was absolved of any blame, he was left a broken man. In season 1931-32, English hit 44 league goals for Rangers, a record which stands to this day. He gave up playing aged just 28 and died in 1967 from motor neurone disease - the same condition which claimed the life of Celtic legend Jimmy Johnstone. English's family, including daughters Charlotte and May, from Clydebank, attended the civic reception and the unveiling of memorial plaques yesterday. Son-in-law Ronnie said: "Sam was a shy man. He would have been more pleased for his daughters." Last year, Fife-born Thomson was inducted into the SFA Hall of Fame after a campaign supported by Prime Minister Gordon Brown. http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/2009/02/27/honour-for-gers-striker-english-86908-21156310/

By Andrew Dickson WALTER SMITH admits it's still too early to think about putting together his team to face Celtic on Sunday because of the international break. Rangers' preparations for this weekend's crucial league derby have been hampered somewhat by the fact so many players have been called up by their countries. Barry FergusonBarry Ferguson, David Weir, Allan McGregor and Kirk Broadfoot all attended Scotland's training camp at St Andrews earlier this week. Kyle Lafferty and Steven Davis are also scheduled to play for Northern Ireland tonight against San Marino in a World Cup qualifier. The same applies to DaMarcus Beasley, who is in the United States squad to face Mexico in the same tournament this evening. Madjid Bougherra is away with Algeria for their home friendly against Benin while Andrius Velicka completes the set as he is representing Lithuania against Andorra. In all, Gers have been without nine senior players over the last couple of days and it would have been more had Kenny Miller been fit enough for the Scots' gathering. With three of his stars involved in competitive games and many more away from Murray Park, Smith is unsure of what state they'll return in. Until he has them back together as one group, he concedes he can't settle on what side he'll field at Parkhead and it could be Friday before he has an idea of who he'll use. All he knows at this stage is that he will be without the injured Nacho Novo and Kevin Thomson, although Miller will be available. Smith said: "It is too early in the week at the moment to say what we'll do at Parkhead on Sunday as we still have people away. "There are a few people who are yet to get their international games out of the way such as Lafferty, Davis and Bougherra. Madjid Bougherra"They're all guys who have been in our team recently but we must wait and see if they return to us injury-free before we know what we're doing. "We won't be sitting down to pick a side until tomorrow or Friday. It's different with the Scottish boys as they're attending a training camp. "We wouldn't expect them to get injured but there are other lads taking part in World Cup qualifiers and they can be a wee bit teethy. "The situation is not perfect in the sense that you like to have your squad together as one in the lead-up to a big game. "The fact the players who were away with Scotland didn't train in the early part of the week because of the weather was a problem, especially as our game at Forfar was off. "I know these things happen but it's not ideal. At least the fact we're playing on Sunday gives us a bit more breathing space. "When international games are on in midweek, we sometimes only get players back on a Friday morning and that's not great if we're then playing on Saturday. "Because the match in 24 hours later, we still have a couple of days together to prepare so it isn't too bad."

RANGERS have named Harold Davis, Stefan Klos and Sam English as the 2009 inductees into the club's Hall of Fame. The trio have been recognised for the contributions they made in their spells at Ibrox as players and each man will be formally honoured at next year's celebration dinner. Harold DavisAt the event, they will join the 78 other men already listed on the Hall of Fame board which hangs above the Marble Staircase in the Bill Struth Main Stand. A strong, hard right-half, Davis played a key role in the excellent Light Blues team of the early 1960s. Along with the likes of Bobby Shearer, John Greig and Jimmy Millar, the Cupar-born player was a formidable opponent for those who came up against him. A superb ball winner, he was rarely caught out of position and seldom lacked the pace he needed to make a difference. Ex-Ger Sandy Jardine, speaking on behalf of the Hall of Fame panel, said: "Harry gave fantastic service to the club at a time when there were so many great players here. "He played more than 300 games for Rangers and was really well liked at Ibrox, not just by the fans but by the players as well. "Harry is a gentleman - you couldn't meet a nicer man and he later went on to be a coach here in the late 1960s and early 70s. "To this day, he still has a huge love of the club and he thoroughly deserves his place in the Hall of Fame." Klos was bought by then Rangers manager Dick Advocaat for just �£700,000 in 1998 from Borussia Dortmund. The transfer quickly turned out to be a good piece of business as the keeper went on to make himself a fixture in the team. Stefan Klos A Champions League winner with the Westfalen side, the German also made over 300 appearances for Rangers during his time in Scotland. Indeed, such was his good form that he minimised the impact of Andy Goram's departure from the club at the end of the previous season. Jardine added: "Our reasons for picking Stefan are simple - he gave Rangers fantastic service and he was at the club for not much less than nine years. "His stats will tell you how much of a contribution he made to the team and he did a great job. "Post-war, Andy Goram aside, he is arguably the best goalkeeper we have had here at Rangers." English was chosen because of the 44 league goals he scored for Rangers in the 1931/32 season. To this day, almost 80 years on, his haul remains a club record. The Irish striker's career was overshadowed by his part in the incident which led to the death of Celtic goalkeeper John Thomson in September 1931. As the Parkhead player dived for the ball, his head accidentally collided with English's knee and he died in hospital from head injuries a few hours later. English did not stay at Ibrox for much longer as he was deeply traumatised by what had happened and he moved to Liverpool in 1933. Had he not been involved in the tragic clash with Thomson, Jardine feels he could have gone on to become on of Gers' greatest ever forwards. He said: "Unfortunately Sam did not play for the club for a long time. He only played 82 games and scored something like 71 goals. "He is the record goalscorer in one season for Rangers and because of that, we've included him in the Hall of Fame. "There's no doubt that if he hadn't been in the tragic accident with John Thomson, he would have stayed at Ibrox a lot longer. "The unfortunate circumstances surrounding what happened led to his departure but we felt we had to recognise his achievement of scoring more goals than anyone in a season."

Anyone else get the feeling that we'll see Walter field a 4-5-1 at Parkhead on the 15th? Would it be a bad idea? I think it's fair to say that there's a pretty good chance that's exactly what we'll see. Nacho Novo is reportedly out for 2 or 3 weeks with an ankle injury and after the impact that Kyle Lafferty made when he came on against Dundee Utd today, there's the chance that we might see him getting a start up front as the lone striker. There's also a good chance that we'll see John Fleck deservedly retain his place on the left of midfield, since he's got the pace, skill & game awareness to give most defenses a troublesome time. In the absence of Kevin Thomson, the midfield 3 of Barry Ferguson, Pedro Mendes & Steven Davis practically picks itself, so the big question might be whether Walter goes with Naismith or Miller on the right wing. Despite the fact that neither of them are natural right wingers, they're both capable of doing a good job out there, so it's difficult to predict who Walter would start in that position. I'm undecided myself as to who I'd like to see starting there, but I'd probably go with Naismith & bring on Miller to replace him if need be. So, my prediction is that we'll be playing a 4-5-1 with the starting line-up looking something like:- .........Broadfoot - Bougerra - Weir - Papac........... Naismith/Miller - Davis - Mendes - Ferguson - Fleck ..............................Lafferty........................... If we happen to take the gamble & play a 4-4-2 the starting line-up would be looking something like:- .........Broadfoot - Bougerra - Weir - Papac........... ...........Davis - Mendes - Ferguson - Fleck........... ...................Boyd - Lafferty/Miller..................... It'll be a tough game, but I think we can definitely beat them. Score prediction:- Celtic 1 - Rangers 2

Another Game, Same Old Deficiencies …. After another below par performance against the Falkirk Bairns on Saturday, surely we can’t be the only ones who are witness to our glaring deficiencies? Our manager and chairmen have branded us faceless and clueless, but even someone as faceless and clueless as myself can determine that we could get more out of our players, especially if they were played in their correct positions and if they were ‘coached’ properly. Once again on Saturday we were served up an unacceptable performance and we were lucky to run out narrow winners. Even after going 2-1 up, we almost allowed Falkirk back into the game but thankfully held out to record a victory and secure a crucial three points. Understanding that I will probably receive the wrath of our custodian by daring to question the managers tactics, I will endeavour to give my opinions of what is going wrong on the pitch. As a paying customer, I surly have the right to that! Continuing with 4 centre-halves in the back line is restricting our attacking options. Both Broadfoot and Papac have been decent at fullback, but both are centre-halves and play like centre-halves. They play very narrow which allows the opposition to exploit the space down our flanks. Why Walter Smith spent circa Ã?£6.5M on forwards in the close season and ignored the glaring deficiencies in the fullback areas is a mystery. We actually have three very decent centre midfield players who all have experience of playing on the English Premiership. All three have shown that they have the ability to play in what is arguably the best league in the world. However, to accommodate all three of these midfield players, we are forced to play one of them as a right winger. We have another brilliant midfield player out for the season. We have two options for the left wing position, but the manager insists on playing anyone other than our natural left wingers at left wing. Again, with no natural width in the midfield, the game is narrowed and we are forced to play through the congested middle of the pitch. Up front, we are well covered at the moment. Off course, this may change during the transfer window, who knows. As for Saturday, the back four looked shaky, and Boogie was caught sleeping for the Falkirk goal (Lovell scores against us with frightening regularity). The midfield didn’t click (again) with only Mendes getting pass marks. Ferguson and Davis (last 10 minutes apart) were awful. The front two tried, but were uninspiring. The only positive was John Fleck – although played out of position (surprise, surprise) he did well. He had two brilliant runs, one where he beat two Falkirk defenders only to be scythed down. The second he supplied a wonderful cross only for Boyd to somehow header the ball directly into the ground for 6 yards out with the goal gaping and at his mercy. Now, Boynd’s goalscoring record is there for all to see, but I can’t remember a centre who is as bad at heading as Boyd is. Steve Davis cuts a lonely figure wide right and we must move him into has favoured position if we are to get the best out of him or we’ll ruin the lad. In the last 10 minutes of Saturdays game Davis demonstrated just how good he could be if played properly. His slide-rule pass to Novo for the 2nd goal was EPL class, as was his clinching goal. However, 10 minutes a game isn’t good enough. Barry Ferguson hasn’t reclaimed any sort of form since returning from injury. This is worrying as he is the only driving force we have in our squad. So, we go to Aberdeen on Saturday only 2 points behind in the league and I for one can see Walter making changes. However, I’d bet that the changes will involve the likes of Adam, McCulloch et al rather than Fleck, Aaron et al. We’ll approach the game as a ‘must not lose’, rather than a ‘must win’. The days of letting the opposition worry about our formation, flare etc are long gone and we have a worrying tendency to alter our team selection to ‘suit’ the opposition (see the changes for the Tannidice game as an example). Somehow we have been given a glimmer of hope in this title race, and we must take full advantage and capitalise on this. Do we have the players capable of doing this? Does our manger have the tactics and coaching capable of this? The next three league games will supply us with the answers. Hopefully, the faceless and clueless legions will be proven wrong and we’ll use this as a springboard to catapult us towards the league title. Only time and the closing of the transfer window will tell. So Do We Deserve Better? There has been much written and spoken about the ‘we deserve better’ campaign and the subsequent response for our custodian and manager. Now, I believe that we all knew how SDM and WS would response, so whilst their responses were disappointing, they were unsurprising. They have basically told us that we are ‘faceless’ and ‘clueless’ when it comes to the running and future of Rangers Football Club. This is the usual SDM mantra – pay up and shut up. So the question remains, do we deserve better? Two last day SPL titles in 8 years, a decade of financial mismanagement, a youth academy that is failing even after numerous changes and a youth development that nobody knows who actually owns it and the players registered to it. A decade of asset stripping that has seen the catering, ticketing, merchandise sold off with little or no money coming directly to Rangers from these ‘outlets’ (apart for the initial fees – short termism at its best). And that is just ‘scratching the surface’. SMD claims that we aren’t entitled to discuss this as we aren’t captains of industry and that we don’t offer alternatives and / or solutions (surely a contradiction in terms there). Anyway, the RST have given SDM pages and pages of solutions, ideas and alternatives, all which SDM dismissed out of hand. Can’t have it both ways SDM. I sincerely hope that this seasons doesn’t fall into the ‘papering over the cracks’ category just like the previous title winning season have. Don’t get me wrong, I am willing Rangers to win this title as much as anyone but fear us winning the title will see the pressure being exerted on SDM diminishing and allowing him to continue with his downsizing of the club and out ambitions. In conclusion, to answer the set questsion - YES, we do deserve better, a hell of a lot better........ Whispers From Murray Park The captain of the ship (i.e the guy who runs our RSC) was through at Murray Park on Friday to get a couple of tops signed for charity. Every player except 4 signed the tops (4 players, McGregor, Mendes, Weir & Naismith had arrived prior to The Captain and were already in for training) but one of the management team refused point blank to stop and sign the tops. Yip, Ally McCoist, hang you’re head in shame, you more than anyone else should know better. Anyway, the general consensus was that ALL the players were happy to stop and not only sign the tops, but to stop and talk for a couple of minutes and were also happy to have photos taken etc. Kris Boyd reinforced his desire to stay at Rangers (as did Boogie and Ferguson) and an unnamed player stated that every player was determined to stay and regain OUR title from Celtc. Most players also confirmed that Boyd was determined to stay and ALL wanted him to stay. Kevin Thomson stated that his operation went well and he can’t wait to get back training and playing. Nacho Novo recognised the guys from the RSC as he was a guest at our POTY Dance 2 season back. NN reinforced his desire and passion to continue to play for Rangers and again stated that he would do all in his power to help our RST (he has in the past – he is a credit to himself and to Rangers Football Club). The two tops are being raffled at a Race Night at the start of February to help raise funds for The Sick Kids Hospital. Cammy F -

One of the biggest surprises in transferland today is the announcement that Rangers will almost certainly sell Kris Boyd to Birmingham by the end of the week. The striker has scored a whopping twenty goals already this season, and has been the Gers top scorer for three seasons running. Understandably, his sale to a Championship side for just Ã?£3.5m has raised more than a few eyebrows in the Scottish capital [er, of football - Ed.]. Captain Barry Ferguson is also said to be on the move for a similar price, although Walter Smith this week denied a move from Newcastle Utd for the player. Owner Sir David Murray has made no secret of his desire to trim down his squad, arguing that the club lost Ã?£10m in projected revenues when they dismally crashed out of the Champions League qualifiers. During an emergency transfer strategy meeting, Smith and Murray reportedly agreed that Allan McGregor, Madjid Bougherra, Pedro Mendes, Steve Davis and Kevin Thomson are ââ?¬Å?untouchableââ?¬Â, but will deal with their estimated Ã?£20m debt by shifting ten players. According to whispers on talkSPORT this morning, however, the entire first team is up for grabs. What exactly is going on north of the border? Is David Murray in a deeper financial mire than he is letting on, or is his fire sale simply a lesson in how not to run a football club? Let us know your opinion on the matter below. http://www.thespoiler.co.uk/index.php/2009/01/07/are-glasgow-rangers-in-big-financial-trouble

I read on the Rangers website that he is 6ft 2". Can anyone confirm? I totally thought he was quite small around 5ft 9.

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/

CRAIG Thomson is to make history by taking a huge step towards becoming Scotland's first-ever professional referee. Thomson, who took charge of the Old Firm game at Ibrox on Saturday, has quit his job as a lawyer with city firm Maclay, Murray & Spens. The 36-year-old is keen to devote more time and energy to his role as a senior SFA, Uefa and Fifa official. The bulk of his working week will be dedicated to training and preparing for the Scottish, European and international games he is involved in. advertisement Craig said: "I was finding it increasingly difficult to juggle my work as a construction lawyer with my refereeing commitments. I had a number of clients whose needs I had to balance with my football. "This year I have had 25 days off over and above my holiday entitlement. I was off for around 60 days and half of that was unpaid leave. I needed the extra time to fulfil my duties with Uefa." The Paisley man, who will maintain other business interests, explained his new work plan: "I was on secondment with Forth Electrical Services in Stirling earlier this year and they have asked me to come and work for them two days a week. "It suits me as I will be able to concentrate more on football. It will be interesting to chart my progress. "I am sure it will benefit me. I will be fitter, fresher and more prepared for each game I take charge of." Thomson's decision to go part-time takes him into line with the leading referees in the Barclays Premier League. Thomson explained: "I speak to the top referees down in England fairly regularly. They are classified as full-time professional referees, but that is not really the case. For example, Mike Riley is an accountant to trade and he still works two days a week. "The only one, in fact, who is strictly speaking full-time is Howard Webb. He is a policeman who has taken a five-year career break to concentrate on refereeing. The other guys all still have jobs." http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2478456.0.0.php I thought he had a terrible game on Saturday and is an averge ref IMO, maybe this will help him maybe it won't!!

As Rangers search for solutions to their title predicament, they have been urged to put their faith in the $5million man yet to be granted a proper opportunity to prove his value. Maurice Edu cost that round sum, about �£2.6m in August from FC Toronto, before sterling began its exchange-rate plunge, but the American international has started only two games this term - the last back in October. Even when Kevin Thomson's cruciate-ligament injury robbed Rangers of a natural holding midfielder in November, Edu did not receive the call to step up and fill his place. Now, however, it's understood the player is winning his battle to convince the Ibrox management team that he is worthy of more exposure as the club seek to claw back a seven-point deficit against Celtic. Former U.S. national coach Bruce Arena, now David Beckham's boss at LA Galaxy, is in no doubt that Edu would thrive under the pressure of the 'must-win' situation currently confronting Rangers as they prepare to face Inverness Caley Thistle on Sunday. Arena has watched the 22-year-old develop from his formative days at the University of Maryland and believes the time is right for Walter Smith to trust Edu's ability to add more steel to his side. 'Maurice is a player who can step up to that kind of pressure and do well,' said Arena, who led the U.S.A to the quarter-finals of the 2002 World Cup. 'It's always a difficult time when you are a scrambling in a title race. Rangers are chasing Celtic and it can feel like an awkward time to introduce young players to the starting line-up. 'But there is no better way to really see the kind of potential a player has. If Walter feels comfortable that he can place Maurice on the field, then, within no more than a couple of games, Maurice will show the qualities that he has. I'm sure he is a player who can help Rangers in their current situation. 'Rangers have paid good money for him and that is another reason why he probably needs to play more. The club has made an investment, so the quicker they can bring him on, the better it is for everyone. 'But Walter is a very experienced manager and my view is that he will make a good decision in this situation. He has seen a lot of young, promising players come and go and I'm sure he will understand when it is the right time to introduce Maurice to the Rangers first team on a permanent basis. 'Right now, Maurice lacks experience, but he has the tools to become a very good player indeed. There is a great deal of promise there. 'It was always going to take him time to adapt to the different demands of professional football in Scotland but he has the right kind of self-confidence and I'm sure he has faith in himself making the breakthrough.' Edu has established himself as part of the U.S.A national squad under Arena's successor, Bob Bradley, and needs more first-team outings to maintain that position in the push for a place in the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa. The fact he has not made an immediate impact at Ibrox comes as no surprise to Arena, who is well versed in the difficulties of American players leaving their homeland to seek their fortunes in Europe. 'I know coach Bradley thinks a lot of Maurice and will be keeping an eye on him,' said Arena. 'In America, though, we have been through this situation with a lot of players - DaMarcus Beasley is one example who has had similar experiences in the past. 'The unfortunate thing for American players is that, because of their lack of exposure to high-level games on a consistent basis in the States, they tend to be a little bit up and down when they move overseas. 'They take a little bit longer to establish themselves but, once they cross that bridge, they tend to have a very strong quality to them and are players who can really help teams. 'With the right period of adjustment, Maurice will be a strong contributor to Rangers. 'America needs more players playing in a better environment. Seeing a player like Edu move to Rangers motivates other young players in America to improve their standard, so that they might get a European opportunity of their own. 'Everyone here is hoping he will establish himself in Scotland and I'm sure he will.' http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1103320/Rangers-Edu-tipped-thrive-heat-title-run-in.html

1 OF game - we go to Parkhead and line up superbly and destroy them on ther on patch. Mendes ticks and controls EVERYTHING while THOMSON tidies up everything at the back! Davis almost convinces he should play RM all the time! The back 4 were awesome - led by Bougherra and his pace means Weir can stroll the game. upfront, Cousin shows how to play upfront! And miller chips in with good game and 2 goals. Home game: Ferguson returns and cant achieve anything. Whittaker returns and seems to play his own game. Broadfoot cant play centre half Davis - had a chance in first 5 mins, apart from that is poor Weir - needs Bougherra Mendes - class act, must be thinking WTF is going on! Adam - outclassed by Robson who I (yes me) played off the park 12 years ago!! upfront - Boyd was terrible, miller was ok first half but shite 2nd Why the change in teams!!! We were on course for brilliance!

Get the following out of the team!!! Once again we look like we are going to lose another title due to having continous SHITE players below RANGERS CLASS in the team Whittaker - absolute total balloon Broadfoot - Centre half your having a laff! Adam - Sunday league if that! Possibly the worst ever Ranger! Boyd - Kilmarnock level - didnt get a sniff or involved against Gary fuckin Caldwell and cant run worth a fuck!!!! - Anyone who thinks this guy will blast Rangers to a title is Deluded of the highest order - He just cant cut it!! He is a squad player for use against the rest of the SPL - accept it! JCD would have done a better job today!!! Lafferty - Makes Capucho look a legend! Burke - glad he wasnt near the team Weir - retire man!!! Ferguson - Lucky Thomson got injured or it would have been Thomson and Mendes for me!! Get IN: Fleck - unleash Aaron - unleash Novo - upfront / right MOVE: Davis - to centre midfield with Mendes

The Boyd Done Good As many long-term readers of my rants and posts on GersNet will testify, I have never been Boydââ?¬â?¢s number one fan. However, I have always stated that if Boyd could improve on his all-round game, add this to his undoubted goal-scoring talent, then heââ?¬â?¢s be an asset to our team. Saturdayââ?¬â?¢s game against Hibernian was in my opinion one of the best ââ?¬Ë?all-roundââ?¬â?¢ games Boyd has had in a Rangers jersey. He tracked back, he linked up play, his movement was decent and after missing a guilt-edged chance in the opening five minutes, scored a goal that only Boyd could score. It wasnââ?¬â?¢t a typical overhead kick, it was just the art of somehow getting the ball to nestle in the back of the net. Saturday was also saw us witness one of the most one-sided 1-0 victories in a long time. Hibernian came with a plan to frustrate us, get everyone behind the ball and not allow our midfield the time or space to utilise Millers clever runs. Credit to the players, they stuck to the task well, even when those in the stands were displaying signs of impatience and were reduced to cat-calling. Ferguson and Mendes showed further signs of a growing understanding and Mendes had his best game since the 4-2 mauling of the MOPES at Parkhead. His intelligent passing and audacious shooting was a joy to behold and certainly livened up the proceedings. I also thought that Papac and SW had very decent games in the full-back areas. With Hibs sitting deep, both took the opportunity to break forward and help to try to unlock the defence. I was disappointed in Hibsââ?¬â?¢ approach, as on their day, they are one of the better SPL teams and tend to play a very decent level of football. I know they had a few key players out injured, but expected them to put more into the game. It seemed that they had resigned themselves to a defeat even before a ball was kicked. You're Just Our Feeder Club This wee ditty is often sung when we play Hibs as we have over the years, signed various players from the Edinburgh club. In recent history players like Kenny Miller, Ian Murray, Steven Whittaker and Kevin Thomson have made the short journey along the M8 and joined Rangers from Hibernian. Others like Craig Patterson who went on to captain The Rangers and in my opinion, the best two players weââ?¬â?¢ve signed from Hibs are Andy Goram and Colin Stein. Both these players went on to make outstanding contributions to The Rangers and both are rightly remembered with great fondness within our support. However, whilst Colin Stein took no time to settle into the groove at Ibrox netting a total of eight goals in his first three games, whilst Andy Goram leaked uncharacteristic goals in his opening spell between the sticks. Stein with the subject of the first Ã?£100,000 pounds transfer between Scottish Clubs and went on to become a firm favourite and a permanent fixture in the Rangers line-up. His bustling style and fantastic heading ability saw Stein score hugely important goals for Rangers including a strike in the Cup Winners Cup Final in Barcalona and the goal that won the 1975 championship. If I remember correctly, he is also the last player to have scored a hat-trick for Scotland. Colin lives local to me and some may find it surprising that he is now a joiner with a local firm and was a very decent at bowls! Andy Goram recovered after a shaky start and established himself into Rangers folk-lore as one of the finest keepers we have had. The list of astonish saves is endless, but the one to deny Hugedonkey at Ibrox was one of the best saves I have ever seen. Both players have actually attended various dances at our RSC and both were a credit to themselves and Rangers Football Club. Worrying Rumours Following on from Super Allyââ?¬â?¢s thread regarding worrying and shocking rumours - http://www.gersnetonline.net/vb/showthread.php?t=9290 here are a few that I heard (from various sources over the weekend) that are as worrying : We have contacted and opened negotiations with Bobo Baldesââ?¬â?¢s representatives with a view to taking the Celtc stopper once his contract expires at Parkhead. This deal is said to be at an advanced stage and could be completed soon. Balde will see out the remainder of his contract at Celtc and move to Rangers in the summer under freedom of contract. West Brom had a Ã?£5M bid for Kevin Thomson accepted by Rangers and the deal was to be concluded in January. However, after Thomsonââ?¬â?¢s injury and West Brom losing sponsorship (with T-Mobile) this deal has been scrapped. West Brom are actually in some financial difficulty as they have lost and failed to replace T-Mobile as shirt sponsors and have gone public locally asking for local investors to invest in the club. However, I am led to believe that Birmingham City are also keen on Thomson and will test Rangersââ?¬â?¢ resolve with a Ã?£5M bid in the summer. If we get a bid from Birmingham, Thomson will be sold. Our finances appear to be a lot worse than any of us thought. Martin Bain has been tasked to make further reductions to the spiralling wage bill, hence the reason as many as 10 players will leave Ibrox in January. Kirk Broadfootââ?¬â?¢s agent was sent packing from Murray Park with a flee in his ear after inquiring about a pay rise for Broadfoot now he is an international player. It is believed that Kirk is on Ã?£2K per week and his agent asked for ~Ã?£4K and was politely told to ââ?¬Ë?beat itââ?¬â?¢. Wonder if this is why young Kirk was demoted to the bench recently. All of the above is unsubstantiated but heard this from a few people, not just one source. Get Into Them Once the turkey and the roast potatoes (am I still allowed to refer to potatoes in this sensitive Old Firm week ââ?¬â?? donââ?¬â?¢t want to offended anyone especially at this time of year) has been digested, weââ?¬â?¢ll welcome our bitter neighbours to our home for the 2nd Old Firm game of the season. The damning statistics regarding our inconsistent form says that even a Rangers win (our 2nd of the season) will still see us trailing the MOPES by a point. That is as hard to swallow as the turkey ââ?¬â?? potentially 2 Old Firm victories and still behind them in the race for the SPL. These encounters are never ââ?¬Ë?tameââ?¬â?¢, but itââ?¬â?¢s time that we crank this game up a notch or two. They have been allowed to swagger around in this fixture recently and itââ?¬â?¢s time that we reverted back to the days of Jock Wallace and got the battle fever on. Lets barrack them from start to finish, lets get on the backs of the officials, lets drown out their bile with Rangers songs (and the odd verse of the hockey cokey), lets get right fookin into them (in a non-sectarian manner you understand). The Rolly-Polly Goalie should be our prime target. This ââ?¬Ë?manââ?¬â?¢ is unstable ââ?¬â?? lets hound him. The players should also be getting into his ear at every opportunity. We should be shooting on site (praying for squigglers), barging him at cross-balls and generally making his life uncomfortable. He isnââ?¬â?¢t in the best frame of minds, so lets try and capitalize on that. Whilst doing all of the above, lets not get on the backs of our players, they need and deserve our full support. Itââ?¬â?¢s worth remembering that anything other than a victory isnââ?¬â?¢t really good enough for us. I would expect Walter Smith to now stick with the 4-4-2 formation and he could stick with Saturdays starting 11. Donââ?¬â?¢t be fooled by the MOPES claims of injury, suspensions etc, theyââ?¬â?¢ll have their strongest 11 on the pitch on Saturday, make no mistake about that. Please Santa, 3 points for The Rangers. Merry Xmas & A Happy New Year Just like to take this opportunity in wishing all fellow GersNet contributors and all Rangers fans a very merry xmas and a happy new year. Cammy F