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WALTER SMITH paid tribute to his Rangers players after their convincing 3-0 victory over Dundee United won them the SPL title. The Light Blues found themselves seven points behind Old Firm rivals Celtic at the turn of the year and at that point it seemed the championship was gone. Nacho Novo and Sasa Papac celebrate in styleBut eight wins in their last nine games meant Gers took the trophy by four points and it was a thoroughly deserved triumph. Smith said: "It's a fantastic feeling. We gave a fantastic performance to win the league - the boys were tremendous throughout. "We set about our game in the right fashion and we were thrilled to get the result in the end. "I don't think our goals could have come at better times for us. We took an early lead then got our second right before half time and that was a crucial point. "We got the third when Dundee United were trying to push us back and that allowed us to kill the game off. "We didn't need to say too much to motivate the players - I'm a great believer that they do that themselves and so it proved. "We've had an awkward season in terms of the decisions that had to be made but we're delighted to have come out on top. "The players have shown real character at times when injuries and suspensions took their toll and this is great for everyone we've called upon. Pedro Mendes scores Rangers second goal against Dundee United "Everyone has done a fantastic job for the team and when you consider everything we've achieved, it has been a great season. "We've got to the League Cup final, won the championship and we've got the Scottish Cup final next week. The boys deserve a lot of credit for that." Gers' title win means they have avoided the treacherous qualifying rounds of the Champions League and secured the best part of �£15million for direct entry instead. Smith added: "Automatic qualification for the Champions League is a massive thing. "It's important, not only financially, but for the management, players, fans and everyone at the Club to be involved at this level. "We are absolutely thrilled about that but we have the Scottish Cup final to look ahead to next so after a wee bit of celebrating tonight we will start to focus on that one! "

WHEN Martin O'Neill's Celtic team flogged the title on the last day at Fir Park four years ago, his players should have been put in front of a firing squad before they made it to the showers. Think about it. A team that could count on the quality of Chris Sutton, John Hartson and Craig Bellamy was asked to beat Motherwell to win the Championship and they folded. Unforgiveable. The same will apply to Walter Smith's Rangers players if they blow it on Tayside this afternoon. As the hysteria of Helicopter Sunday mounts, there has been some junk written of the task facing the league leaders. Rangers haven't won at Tannadice in three years, we are told. Dundee United will die for the single point they need to clinch a European place, we are warned. Gordon Strachan You would think that Smith's side were facing Manchester United. The league table tells a different story. United lie a massive 30 points behind Rangers! Of 18 home games this season, the Tangerines have won just seven. The reason for that? Craig Levein's players aren't as good as those who will run out for Smith today. End of story. Nor are they used to the pressure that comes with the Old Firm territory. Of the four title medals I picked up, three were won on the last day. Nothing concentrates the mind more than the fear of losing. It's a way of life in Glasgow, a psyche that breeds the mental strength required to survive at our two biggest clubs. One that should see Rangers over the finishing line after an astonishing comeback. Every time the Celtic boss checked his rear view mirror the Rangers boss was there Whatever the outcome, Smith has outmanaged Gordon Strachan this season. While Strachan drove his side to glory with a seven-win sprint finish last year, Smith has guided Gers into the box seat against all the odds this season. When the embarrassment of Rangers' Champions League exit to Kaunas was followed by the departure of Carlos Cuellar to Aston Villa, you'd have got long odds on them being in the mix this morning. Remember, they were already without long-term injury victim Barry Ferguson at that time. And there was more pain for Rangers punters to swallow. While Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell was sanctioning a January deal for Steven Fletcher that would have run to �£4million, Sir David Murray was trying to flog Kris Boyd on eBay. Murray's humiliating admission that the bank was now calling the shots must have had the Celtic board purring. Throw in the seven-point lead the champions had at the time and Dermot Desmond's gang had Rangers in their pocket. Or so they thought. What a misjudgement. While Hoops punters started to dream of another nine-in-a-row, Smith set about the unlikely task of closing the gap. On and off the pitch he has had his work cut out. The lack of brains in his dressing room saw to that. Boyd was first to feel Smith's toe up his backside when the striker was booted out of Murray Park. Since then the player has been terrific. More firefighting was required when Ferguson and Allan McGregor hit the headlines at Loch Lomond while on Scotland duty. Smith could have ducked it but put the title and his job on the line by suspending them. Throughout the crisis management Smith continued to stalk Strachan. Every time the Celtic boss checked his rear view mirror the Rangers boss was there hoping for a slip - and boy, have Celtic obliged. Just two away wins this side of the New Year has seen Celtic lose their earlier authority. Last weekend's tame surrender of two points at Easter Road was symptomatic of a team that has lost its way. Celtic may well beat Hearts today, but they should never have been in the position of needing a favour from Dundee United in the first place. Meanwhile, Smith and his players head for Tannadice and the most difficult step of them all. There can be no excuse for failure. Time surely for critics of the SPL split to dry their eyes. Sure, it's not perfect and yes, ideally teams should play the same number of times home and away. But for a league of dubious quality, Hitchcock couldn't have scripted a more dramatic end to the season this weekend. Agree? Disagree? Scroll down to leave your comments As Kilmarnock's Billy Brown backs Gordon Strachan and Ally McCoist's endorsement of the format, who has come up with a better idea? To be fair, wee Jim McLean's favoured 16-team set-up still has supporters. Most of them already sectioned under the Mental Health Act! http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/scottish/scottish_sport/322276/DAVIE-PROVAN-Celtic-should-never-have-needed-a-title-favour.html

Manager Walter Smith insists Rangers' desire for Scottish Premier League glory should count for more than anything Celtic say. Victory at Dundee United on Sunday would guarantee the title and end a run of three consecutive Celtic successes. However, Celtic striker Georgios Samaras said his team were better and deserve to win the championship. "The motivation to win a championship comes from within," said Smith. "That's good motivation." In what is sure to be a tense finale to the season, Celtic can overhaul Rangers' two-point lead on the final day if Smith's side drop points at Tannadice and the defending champions beat Hearts. But Smith is confident his players are aware of the demands at Ibrox and will not need any extra spur from Samaras's comments. The Greek international suggested Rangers would be unworthy champions but Smith insisted: "That's a poor motivation for anybody. "Everybody in Scotland has opinions. We read them every day and we listen to them every day. It's just something that happens. "If that's the player's opinion, then fine. I always say to players that's not a good motivation. "If you have to grasp onto something else all the time, then that's not the proper motivation." Smith enjoyed great success during his first spell at Ibrox, steering the club to their nine-in-a-row success in the late 1990s. He returned at a time when the Ibrox club was in disarray following Paul Le Guen's disastrous 200-day tenure and now has the chance to end a period of Celtic dominance. But Smith claims the weight of expectation is no greater this time around. "I don't feel an added pressure," he explained. "I knew the expectations when I came back a second time. "Even the first time, you know you are putting yourself in the position with a major club that you have to win. That's what you have to do. "It's not an added pressure, it's just something that's there and you have to handle it." Smith was also quick to refute suggestions that his future at Rangers will not be determined by whether they win the championship or not this weekend. A final-day triumph could allow Smith to walk away from the dugout and take up a director of football role, while paving the way for his assistant Ally McCoist to take over But the former Everton and Scotland boss was tight-lipped about the prospect of any changes taking place this summer. "There has been a lot of talk about my own future," he said. "We will see. "There is nothing that will happen in the next few days that will determine my future one way or another - unless the chairman says otherwise!" http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/rangers/8064341.stm

THE sceptics told Walter Smith never to go back. They warned him that he could wreck his nine-in-a-row legacy. It was heartfelt advice he considered, then ignored. Now Smith stands just 90 minutes from showing everyone he was RIGHT to return to Rangers. The Gers gaffer, who can lift the SPL trophy with victory at Tannadice tomorrow, said: "It is always difficult when you are a manager. "The competitive spirit you have ensures you want to win. "A lot of people said I was wrong to come back to Ibrox. "They told me it's never good to go back. "I thought maybe they had a case with what they were saying. "But I don't have the kind of ego that bothers too much about that kind of stuff. "I just saw coming back as another challenge and so far it has been an enjoyable one." The Ibrox legend knew he was risking everything when he answered the call to succeed Paul le Guen. He endured a messy split from the SFA and the wrath of the Tartan Army. He sacrificed leisure time with his family and beloved grandkids. And he endangered his lofty position in the affections of Gers fans after his heroics first time around. But Smith, now 61, just couldn't resist the opportunity to come back for a second spell at the helm. He has already won both domestic cups, reached a UEFA Cup Final and taken Gers to two last-day title deciders. And it's the kind of gripping last-day tension which will be on show tomorrow that persuaded Smith to ignore all the advice in January 2007. He added: "Coming back here has had its disappointments, but it has been enjoyable. "Managerially, this season has been a challenge with all the things that have happened. "But this game on Sunday is one of the reasons I came back. "You miss this kind of tension going into the last day of the season. "You miss not being able to say you are a winner. "I don't look upon it as anything for me in terms of my CV. But I do want to win this as much as I wanted to win the first championship I was involved in." Advertisement Click here Smith landed TEN titles in a dozen silver-strewn seasons of success in the 80s and 90s. He gathered his first championship under Jim McLean with Dundee United in 1983. Now he's desperate to return to Tannadice and land Gers' first title for four years. He said: "I've always found Tannadice a difficult place to go since I moved away from United. "They are all difficult games at this stage and this one will be no different. "I was at United the first time I was involved with a team which won the championship. "We had to go to Dens Park on the last day. That was a difficult one, too. "But the games when you are going out to win championships are always tough matches. "When you get into these positions, you always look at what's happened during the season. "If you had said at the start of January it would have come down to this, we'd have taken it. "I felt Celtic going seven points in front, with the consistency they have shown over the last few seasons, meant it was going to be a difficult task to get that number of points back again. "It's been a great effort to get into the position we are in now. "Even after we beat Aberdeen last week, Celtic had the advantage of goal difference. But Celtic drawing at Easter Road - like we did - has given us an opportunity to win the championship. "At the start of January it would have been something which, in my darker moments, I would not have thought possible." Smith is refusing to take anything for granted as he heads for Dundee. Gers have won just one of their last NINE trips to Tannadice - and that was more than three years ago. United need a point to guarantee fourth place and qualification for the Europa League. Smith added: "United would have hoped to have clinched a European place beforehand. "For a lot of their play over the season, they probably deserve to have done so. "But they now find themselves in a position where they still have something to play for. "They won't care if Rangers win the championship or not. "They will try to achieve their own ambition and that makes it an even more difficult match. "We went to Aberdeen on the last day of last season when they had nothing to play for and they were fully committed. "Tannadice has been a difficult ground for us over the last few years. "United are a good team, especially since Craig Levein has gone there. "He's done a good job lifting them up and they have found a good level against the Old Firm." http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/article2444411.ece

by Alison McConnell Rangers manager Walter Smith has insisted that his future at Ibrox will NOT be determined by this weekend's events. Speculation has abounded that both he and Celtic counterpart Gordon Strachan will step down regardless of what happens in the race for the Championship. But speaking before the do-or-die trip to Tannadice, Smith said: "Nothing that happens in the next few days will determine my future one way or the other, unless the chairman says differently." advertisement And the Ibrox boss was satisfied that common sense prevailed as defender Madjid Bougherra, as expected, was cleared to play in the critical game against United. "It is important for us to have him back," he said. "He has been excellent for us this season. "I am delighted that the decision has been reversed and I am pleased for the lad himself because he has missed a number of big games for us this season and we didn't want him to miss this one." Georgios Samaras cranked up the pressure by insisting that Rangers will not be worthy champions if they win the title, but Smith dismissed theories that this will give his side further motivation to win on Sunday. "That would be a poor motivator for anyone," said the Rangers boss. "Everyone in Scotland has an opinion - we read and listen to them every day. "Motivation to win a Championship comes from within. It comes from within a manager and from within players. "Grasping at something else isn't proper motivation." http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2509846.0.0.php

Manager Walter Smith insists Rangers' desire for Scottish Premier League glory should be self-generated, and not down to anything Celtic say. More...

by Thomas Jordan BARRY FERGUSON has seven offers on the table to leave Rangers this summer. But the deposed skipper will shelve all thoughts on his future until after Walter Smith's side bid to win the domestic double is decided. SportTimes understands that Ferguson has received approaches from clubs in England, Germany and the Middle East as he heads into the final year of his Ibrox deal. But he has yet to hold any discussions with the Ibrox hierarchy about his long-term future, and this will happen after the Scottish Cup Final against Falkirk on May 30. advertisement West Brom have led the way in the efforts to land Ferguson, and he has held talks with Baggies boss Tony Mowbray - but nothing had been decided and he is leaving his options open. His main focus is getting a starting jersey at Tannadice as Rangers attempt to win the SPL title. And that may well happen after boss Smith organised a closed-doors game with Manchester City on Tuesday at Murray Park in a bid to hone the sharpness of Ferguson, and other players who have been on the periphery. He played 45 minutes of that bounce match - and Smith is now considering starting him on Sunday because of his vast experience of these situations. It is believed the Rangers manager and the former skipper held talks last week at which Ferguson made it absolutely clear to his manager he was fully fit, committed and ready to play again if called upon. To that end, Smith then put him on the bench for the crucial game against Aberdeen last weekend, and the 31-year-old came on for the final half-hour to make his first appearance in seven weeks. Now, it remains to be seen if Ferguson will start against Dundee United just weeks after it looked as though he would never pull on a Rangers strip again. Meanwhile, reports in Italy today claim that Lazio are interested in Pedro Mendes. The Serie A side have secured a Europa League place for next season and are on the hunt for new players. Mendes arrived from Portsmouth last summer for �£3m. He was then the subject of a �£4m offer from Bolton in January, which Rangers rejected. However, with a big summer of change on the way at Ibrox in terms of personnel, Mendes may well be moved on if a big offer does come in. Blackpool have confirmed they are still trying to land Charlie Adam - even though they don't have a new manager confirmed for next season. http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2509552.0.0.php

says Record psychic David IT'S the title race which has proved impossible to predict but one of the country's leading astrologers believes it's written in the stars for Rangers to be crowned champions on Sunday. Stargazer David Wells, who is also a psychic and best-selling author, is convinced the Ibrox club's spiritual journey will end on Tayside this weekend when they are presented with the SPL title. This season's championship battle has had more twists and turns than an episode of Strictly Come Dancing with the lead changing hands no less than three times in the last week alone. The outcome remains firmly in the balance heading towards this weekend's final-day showdowns at Parkhead and Tannadice. But while supporters, players and managers remain in the dark over the destiny of the championship Record Sport's very own mystic is backing Walter Smith's men to end Celtic's four-year stranglehold on the league crown. Using the respective formation dates of the Old Firm clubs and the birthdays of both managers Wells has based his predictions on chart readings given their relation to the solar system. The spiritualist has also assessed both likely line-ups and believes Rangers, who head to Dundee with a two-point advantage over Celtic, will answer the questions surrounding their ability to handle the pressure-cooker situation. Wells said: "What is really important for Rangers is Mars is very prominent and that was the case when the club was formed. "At the moment Rangers have a high concentration of planets in areas which define sport and that is good news for them ahead of Sunday's game. "They are going to be much more aggressive than Celtic although whether that aggression translates to goals is another matter. "Their strength of character has been called into question in the build-up to this weekend's match but I think that will be red rag to a bull. People questioning their bottle will only serve to fire them up. "Jupiter also appears in Rangers' chart and with that they have to be careful of not just looking pretty. "It needs to be substance over style if they want to win the league.They need to substitute pretty football for hard-faced aggression." After leading the way for the majority of the campaign Celtic's challenge appears to have petered out in the closing stretch. Dropping 20 points since January and costly slip-ups in two of their last three games at Ibrox and Easter Road have handed the initiative to Rangers. Wells said: "Celtic don't have any sign of aggression in their chart. In fact it is all over the shop. There are no major planets around and in comparison to their Old Firm foes it is bereft of strength. "Mars and Libra are on the periphery which makes them a lot less aggressive than Rangers. It's also strange they appear to have run out of steam as they do have plenty of stamina." Victory for Rangers at Tannadice will guarantee them the title regardless of the result at Parkhead where Celtic host Hearts. And while they have won just once in their last nine visits to Tayside, Wells, who has a dedicated fans' site called Wells' Angels, feels they will not let this opportunity slip by. He said:"Rangers will come out fighting at Tannadice. The big question is whether they have the sustainability? My advice to Walter Smith's side if they want to be champions is: Keep it going. "If Rangers flag for a second and let their concentration drop that could be catastrophic. "But when push comes to shove I think Rangers will be the winners. Providing they can control their anger and channel their belief in the right direction they will be champions. "Now before anybody accuses me of bias I'd like to make it clear I am a Rangers fan. Having been brought up in the Borders my family have always had an affinity with Berwick Rangers." Team selection, tactics, previous experience and bottle will all play key roles on Sunday and on that score Celtic have the upper hand. Wells said: "To confuse matters, Gordon Strachan has a luckier chart on a personal level. "Walter Smith is going to have to work a lot harder at motivating his players and making them believe they can do it. There's no doubt they have the ability to close out the deal. They just have to be convinced of that. Celtic players don't have any problems on that score as they have been there and done it several times before." If horoscopes are the choice of reading in the Ibrox dressing room there could be a worrying few days ahead for some of Smith's squad. Pedro Mendes was a major doubt with a knee knock for last week's game with Aberdeen andWells is predicting another major injury scare. He added: "The only problem for Rangers could be injury problems. I foresee some serious injury worries for the manager in the build-up to the game. "The players have to be very careful in the next few days especially when they are in their cars. I'm not predicting anything as serious as a crash but would urge them to be extra vigilant." http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/rangers/2009/05/21/leading-astrologer-insists-spl-title-is-heading-to-ibrox-86908-21376581/

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.

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KENNY MILLER has declared himself fit to face Aberdeen in tomorrow's massive SPL showdown at Ibrox. Kenny Miller, Rangers celebrates his second goalThe striker missed Wednesday night's 1-1 draw with Hibs at Easter Road due to a hamstring problem but is ready to return for the club's penultimate game of the season. With a win imperative for Rangers Walter Smith will be delighted to have Miller back in his plans and the Scotland star is desperate to get on the scoresheet and erase the disappointment of missing his side's midweek trip to Edinburgh. He said: "It was very frustrating not to be involved against Hibs. "The game against Celtic last weekend was my first start for a while but my hamstring flared up again after that. "It took a few days for it to settle down but I am fit now and will train with the lads today. "Hopefully I can be in the starting eleven against the Dons." Miller is expecting a tough 90 minutes against Jimmy Calderwood's men but hopes Rangers can get off to a flyer in their last home fixture. He said: "We have to win the game first and foremost because you never know what could happen at Easter Road on Sunday. "If we can go out and get an early goal that will help to settle any early nerves, that has to be our aim. "But Aberdeen are a good team as we have seen when we faced them earlier this season.Kenny Miller battles with Shunsuke Nakamura "We will give them respect but if we play the way we can I am always confident we can get three points." With Celtic currently on top of the SPL on goal difference Rangers will look to attack from the first whistle on Saturday and Miller insists they have the firepower to shoot down the Dons. He said: "In the first-half on Wednesday we did not really get started but Kyle and Nacho came on and did very well. "Nacho got the goal big while Laff played on the left and made a difference. "So the manager has options in the forward areas and there is no doubt we have the players that can create and score goals." Andrius Velicka is the only striker that will not feature this weekend due to an illness but Sasa Papac should join Miller in the squad having recovered from a knee injury.

Rangers v Aberdeen Venue: Ibrox Date: Saturday 16 May Kick-off: 1230 BST Coverage: BBC Radio Scotland & BBC Sport website. Rangers v Aberdeen Rangers striker Kenny Miller has recovered from a hamstring injury and fit-again midfielder Barry Ferguson also returns to the squad. Defender Sasa Papac should also feature after weeks on the sidelines but forward Andrius Velicka is ill. Aberdeen midfielder Mark Kerr returns from suspension. But Jamie Smith, Andrew Considine, Zander Diamond, Darren Mackie, Derek Young and Tommy Wright are all out injured and Peter Pawlett is doubtful. Rangers manager Walter Smith: "Aberdeen have been difficult opponents for us over the period of time that I've been back. "That will be a hard enough game for us so we'll just have to approach it in the manner that we can take advantage of the fact we're at home and go and try to win the game. "At Rangers and Celtic, the pressure is on and you've got to win whether you play on a Saturday or a Sunday. That's the bottom line. "I don't think all this stuff about pressure being put on you by the one who has played on the Saturday is there. "You've got to win the game anyway." Aberdeen manager Jimmy Calderwood: "We are under no illusions about how difficult it is going to be. We have played well there in recent years and, if we had taken our chances, we could have come away with a victory. "Eighteen years is a long time for Aberdeen. It is the only ground that I have not won at since I came here and, having been born only a mile away from the stadium, it would be nice to get that monkey off my back. "I don't think Hearts and Dundee United would be too happy if we won, but we just have to look after ourselves. "If we get a draw and Hearts and Dundee United draw, or Hearts win, then that may be a good point for us." Rangers (from): Alexander, Dailly, Bougherra, Weir, Whittaker, Papac, Davis, Mendes, Edu, S Smith, Lafferty, Ferguson, Boyd, McCulloch, Miller, McGregor, Novo, Fleck, Wilson. Aberdeen (from): Langfield, Foster, Severin, Mair, Mulgrew, Duff, McDonald, Kerr, Aluko, Miller, Maguire, Bossu, Vidal, Stewart, Paton, Ross, Holme, Stirling Smith. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/8051174.stm

RANGERS star Kirk Broadfoot was left nursing a sore face after an exploding EGG landed him in hospital. The Scotland full-back was inspecting two eggs he had just poached in his microwave when one of them blew up and squirted scalding-hot water into his face. A Rangers insider said: "It may sound funny but it was quite a serious accident. Kirk's face was quite badly burned." The shocked star phoned his parents, Marilyn and John, who rushed round to his luxury home in Ballochmyle, Ayrshire, from their house in nearby Drongan and took him to hospital. Kirk, 25, was treated for scalds to his cheek and allowed home. He told Rangers manager Walter Smith what had happened and he is now being monitored by club doctors. "As it happens, it was a close shave," the Record's Ibrox source said."He was very close to burning his eye, which could have had a serious impact on his career." Kirk was already out of the Rangers team with an injury before the egg incident on Sunday. He is expected to make a full recovery from his scalds Get well soon Kirk, he'll be a broken shell of a man today

Kenny Miller forced to sit out Easter Road duel By Graham 'B.O. Bhoy' Spiers Rangers will be without Kenny Miller against Hibernian at Easter Road tonight after the striker suffered yet another recurrence yesterday of the trapped nerve that has intermittently blighted his season. Miller, who may have to see a specialist over the summer about the injury, has complained of feeling further discomfort in the wake of Saturdayââ?¬â?¢s Old Firm match at Ibrox. Walter Smith hopes that he will be available for Saturdayââ?¬â?¢s game against Aberdeen at Ibrox, but is resigned to resting Miller in the meantime. ââ?¬Å?Kenny has had a recurrence of his problem, but Iââ?¬â?¢m hopeful that, if he gets a couple of daysââ?¬â?¢ rest, he will be OK to face Aberdeen,ââ?¬Â Smith said. ââ?¬Å?I was hoping Kenny might go injury-free until the end of the season, but he has been feeling the soreness again in that area, so it looks like he will miss out against Hibs. Itââ?¬â?¢s a nerve problem. Heââ?¬â?¢s on medication, which will keep him going until the end of the season, but that is not going to solve the problem. He will have to get it looked at in the close season, and hopefully they can do something about it. Sasa Papac will also be out for Rangers, but could return against Aberdeen. Smith confessed that he was ââ?¬Å?pleasantly surprisedââ?¬Â by Rangersââ?¬â?¢ recent run in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League ââ?¬â? they have won six games in a row and are aiming to make it nine ââ?¬â? though he cautioned against the notion of both halves of the Old Firm being able to close out the season by claiming a full 18 points between them. ââ?¬Å?We are in the midst of a decent run of results and we just have to make sure we keep it going,ââ?¬Â Smith said. ââ?¬Å?Iââ?¬â?¢m pleasantly surprised overall. I think the team has got the capability, but what has surprised me a wee bit is that this run has come at a time when weââ?¬â?¢ve had injuries and suspensions and other things to deal with. ââ?¬Å?You never know what will happen. Iââ?¬â?¢ve said before that the Old Firm game tends to grab everyoneââ?¬â?¢s attention, and that it is thought that ââ?¬â? win, lose or draw an Old Firm game ââ?¬â? youââ?¬â?¢ll go on and win all the rest of the matches. But itââ?¬â?¢s not like that. ââ?¬Å?There is the possibility that both Rangers and Celtic could drop points over these next three games. I think this season has shown that we have to do well to win the other games. At Rangers we have already found out to our cost that the other teams in Scotland are capable of winning this season.ââ?¬Â Mixu Paatelainen, the Hibernian manager, is hoping to put that sort of thinking to the test tonight. He wants his side to play on any nerves in the Rangers squad as he targets the wins over the Old Firm that would result in them playing a significant role in the destination of the title ââ?¬â? they also play Celtic on Sunday. The Finn is eager to see how Rangers react if things do not go all their own way against a Hibernian team who, despite pushing them close in the recent 3-2 defeat, have failed to take a single point from their opponents this season. ââ?¬Å?Rangers are full of confidence and they know if they win their remaining matches they are champions,ââ?¬Â Paatelainen said. ââ?¬Å?They are determined and will make matches very difficult for their opponents, no doubt, as always. ââ?¬Å?But a draw is not a good result for Rangers, so the longer the game goes, if we can defend well, they will get anxious and a little bit nervous and probably start forcing their passes a little bit. In that respect they could make it a little bit easier for us.ââ?¬Â http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/scotland/article6276313.ece

By Andrew Dickson MAURICE EDU has been passed fit for tomorrow's crucial SPL trip to Edinburgh, where Rangers will face Hibernian. There had been concerns about the American's fitness after he was injured in a clash with Celtic's Glenn Loovens during the first half of Saturday's 1-0 derby win. Mo Edu was injured in a tackle with Celtic's Glenn Loovens on SaturdayThe 23-year-old sat out training today as he was given more time to recuperate ahead of the game at Easter Road. But manager Walter Smith insists he will be ready for the latest chapter in Gers' bid for the title and that's a massive boost for the manager. Edu gave an excellent Old Firm performance at the weekend and scored the winner the last time the Light Blues played in Leith on April 19. Smith said: "Maurice seems okay. He missed training this morning but he'll be fine to play in the game tomorrow. "He has done well since he came in but he hasn't surprised me. I thought it would take him the whole season to settle, as it has done with a number of players. "Kyle Lafferty is another who is in a very similar situation and Maurice especially has handled this last part of the campaign really well." While Edu is fit and available, it seems Bosnian defender Sasa Papac won't make the trip through to the capital. Although he was initially sidelined after he sustained a gash in his foot at St Mirren last month, it's a knee injury he picked up on his return at Hibs that keeps him out. Smith added: "It doesn't look like Sasa will make it. Again, he has been a little bit slow to recover from his knee injury. "Aside from that, everybody else who has been available and playing for us in the last few weeks is fit. Mo was the only one who missed training but I'm certain he'll be fit."

By Andrew Dickson NEIL ALEXANDER reckons Rangers are in the perfect position to avoid missing out on the SPL trophy like they did last season. The Light Blues were in control of their title destiny until three games from the end of the campaign 12 months ago. Neil AlexanderOn that occasion, the sheer volume of their gruelling 68-game schedule caught up with them as fatigue took a grip of Walter Smith's squad. Now, with three rounds of fixtures to go again, Gers sit two points clear of Celtic at the top of the league table. But they're not having to play nearly as much this time and this season will be 19 games shorter than the 2007/08 schedule was. Alexander feels that has helped the team far more as it bids for a record 52nd championship and he's confident there won't be another collapse. He said: "I certainly hope there isn't one. The boys feel great, our confidence is very high and we feel fresh. Hopefully that stands us in good stead. "We know what's at stake in our three remaining games and we're raring to go. We've prepared right, both physically and mentally, since Saturday's game with Celtic. "Hopefully that will help too and I feel the freshness we have is the big difference this season from last. "We had games coming at us left, right and centre back then and it was very difficult to prepare correctly and get enough rest and training time. Neil Alexander celebrates beating Celtic"This year we have a bit of time between each game we play and we can look forward to them. "The bitter taste of what happened last year sticks in your throat. We were so close and we all remember the feeling of driving back on the bus from Aberdeen. "It wasn't nice so hopefully that will spur us on and inspire us to put things right on this occasion." Alexander turned in a good performance at the weekend as Steven Davis, one of his closest friends at Murray Park, scored to ensure Rangers won the derby 1-0. It was a brilliant moment for the former Cardiff City keeper, who ranks it as one of the greatest he has ever had. The 31-year-old added: "We knew it was such a big game and a vital one in which we had to get three points. "To come through it successfully, after all the pressure we were under to get a result, was great. "It was one of the best feelings I've ever experienced in my career. The final whistle was all about relief more than anything." Neil Alexander celebrates beating Celtic with Kenny MillerAlexander's focus now turns to the clash with Hibernian tomorrow night, a match which could take Rangers a step closer to the silverware if they win. He knows it's vital to get another positive result after seven wins recently for the sake of keeping the destiny of the championship in the Light Blues' hands. Alexander said: "The momentum we've picked up has been massive. If you get into a winning habit, it's a nice habit to have. "It has obviously taken us to the top of the league and that's where we want to be because there are a lot of rewards there for us if we keep doing well. "We aren't getting carried away. We know the Hibs game is a really important one and it would be criminal to throw away our advantage after doing so well to get it. "We're looking forward to each match and we're confident so hopefully we'll do enough to get ourselves over the finishing line. "We're comfortable with the pressure of being top of the league because it shows we're doing the right thing and that must continue to be the case."

Rangers will remove the 'For Sale' sign from four of their biggest names if they clinch the SPL title and �£15million Champions League bounty. In another major boost for Ibrox fans, after Saturday's 1-0 victory over Celtic put their team two points ahead in the championship race with three games left, Sportsmail can reveal that Steven Davis, top scorer Kris Boyd, Pedro Mendes and Madjid Bougherra will be retained if wages are saved elsewhere. Boozegate pair Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor will still be sold if the right offers come in, but the capture of the league crown is now vital if Walter Smith's key men are to have a future in Govan. Last night, Bougherra fuelled the feelgood factor by vowing to remain at Rangers next season - and is anxious for David Weir to do the same to preserve their defensive partnership. The 26-year-old Algerian was among a number of star players linked with summer sales after Boyd's January transfer to Birmingham collapsed. City boss and ex-Ibrox manager Alex McLeish was an interested spectator on Saturday, but any pursuit of players may be in vain if his cash-strapped former club claim their first title for four years and beat Celtic to the automatic Champions League revenue. 'From what I see of these lads, the determination is there and I am confident they can handle the situation,' he said. 'The period when we were seven points behind is one that comes to mind. With the consistency Celtic had shown, it looked pretty difficult for us. 'The defeat in December was a huge disappointment because I felt that, for 70 minutes, we played the best we had done in any Old Firm game since I returned to the club. Now we must close it out.' Walter Smith Boss Walter Smith will need a star-studded team to compete in the Champions League After Hibs, Aberdeen visit Ibrox on Saturday lunchtime, with the final fixture at Tannadice on Sunday, May 24. 'I've said often enough that other games can have a massive influence,' said Smith. 'Anyone who saw us at Easter Road the other week will know what a difficult game Hibs gave us. Aberdeen have to come here and Tannadice has always been a hard place for us. 'So they are difficult games - and Celtic face them, too. But we are in a good position. We have to show we can handle it.' Meanwhile, Bougherra, the �2.5m signing from Charlton, insisted that staying at Rangers will see him continue to improve under Weir's tuition. The Scotland centre-back turned 39 yesterday, but Bougherra urged him to carry on into his 40s and hopes an extension to the veteran's contract will be agreed. 'I have learned so much playing with David,' he said. 'Everyone on the staff wants him to stay. 'The way he trains and plays shows what a great professional he is. I don't know if I could do the same at 39. I'll probably be back in Algeria with my family at that age, putting my feet up.' http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1180290/Ibrox-stars-sale-Rangers-clinch-SPL-title-Champions-League-spot.html

Walter's post match challenge to the players: Underselling Edu's recent contribution? Obviously wanna keep the boys feet on the ground but at the same time I think you need to praise players when it's deserved.

WALTER SMITH insists that Rangers wonââ?¬â?¢t crumble and gift Celtic nine-in-a-row glory. The Ibrox boss hit out after Gers legend Richard Gough confessed to his fear that the Hoops stand on the brink of history. Former Light Blues skipper Gough reckons losing the SPL crown to Celts could spark a catastrophic collapse at Ibrox. But, on the eve of tomorrowââ?¬â?¢s vital Old Firm clash at Ibrox, Smith claimed Gough is WRONG. He said: ââ?¬Å?I can never remember thinking winning four-in-a-row would mean going on to win nine-in-a-row. ââ?¬Å?Itââ?¬â?¢s difficult enough to win one. Youââ?¬â?¢d have to win four, then win four again and then start on the ninth. ââ?¬Å?It is always difficult to find that level of consistency. ââ?¬Å?You donââ?¬â?¢t go from four to nine in five minutes. ââ?¬Å?I donââ?¬â?¢t think anybody here ever thought of doing nine in the midst of two, three or four-in-a-row. ââ?¬Å?Itââ?¬â?¢s a good theory but there is a lot of assumption in there.ââ?¬Â Smith is focused on four games rather than four titles as the championship race enters the final furlong. Victory would thrust Gers two points clear of the Hoops but even if that happens, Smith reckons the tussle will go to the wire. He said: ââ?¬Å?The Old Firm game tends to dominate everyoneââ?¬â?¢s thoughts, but it would show a disregard to the other teams we still have to play if we said this was a ââ?¬Ë?must winââ?¬â?¢ match. ââ?¬Å?We canââ?¬â?¢t run away from the fact that itââ?¬â?¢s going to be a vitally important match for both teams in the quest to win a championship. ââ?¬Å?But I donââ?¬â?¢t think we can disregard the others teams. The three remaining matches we have will be extremely tough. ââ?¬Å?But, if you have thoughts of winning the championship, then youââ?¬â?¢d want to win this game. ââ?¬Å?I find it difficult to separate one Old Firm game from another. You always have that bit of tension and nervousness before all the derby games. ââ?¬Å?It is the same every season and the intensity increases as the season goes on. ââ?¬Å?If you are asking me if this one is any more important than any other, Iââ?¬â?¢d have to say no. ââ?¬Å?But it IS a vitally important game for both clubs.ââ?¬Â Smith insisted heââ?¬â?¢s NOT worried by Tom Murphyââ?¬â?¢s appointment as a linesman tomorrow. He clashed with Murphy after a draw at Motherwell earlier this season, but Smith said: ââ?¬Å?Yes, it is an interesting decision, but I have no problem with him officiating the game. None at all. ââ?¬Å?I said what I said after the Motherwell game. He has since officiated other games for us so I donââ?¬â?¢t have any problem with him officiating this one.ââ?¬Â But the Gers gaffer IS annoyed that Gers must play two games in less than 70 hours next week. They face Hibs on Wednesday night and Aberdeen on Saturday lunchtime while Celts have FIVE DAYS between their games. Advertisement SunSport first revealed Gers were unhappy with the timings back on April 21 and Smith confirmed: ââ?¬Å?I felt it was unfair of them to ask us to play two games within two days when it was not necessary, especially after what happened to us last season. ââ?¬Å?That aspect of the split is an unfair one from our point of view and we have expressed our concern.ââ?¬Â Smith threw open the gates of Murray Park to allow Gough, now 47, to train with the first-team yesterday. He said: ââ?¬Å?Richard is the same as before ââ?¬â? fit but hopeless. But, seriously, he is in good nick and it was good to see him.ââ?¬Â Gough was joined by another ex-Gers captain, Barry Ferguson, for a full session. Fergie was returning from his calf injury but wonââ?¬â?¢t be considered for the crucial lunchtime clash with SPL leaders Celts. And Gers are also sweating over crocked left-back Sasa Papac as he battles knee ligament problems. Smith said: ââ?¬Å?We have a doubt over Sasa for Saturday. ââ?¬Å?He has strained ligaments on the outside of a knee. ââ?¬Å?It is causing him a problem, especially when he turns. ââ?¬Å?We are keen to have him and there is still a possibility we will have him. ââ?¬Å?But if he misses Saturday, he will be fit for the next week. ââ?¬Å?Barry is progressing but needs a few more daysââ?¬â?¢ training before he is up to match fitness. ââ?¬Å?I would hope that would be in the next few days. ââ?¬Å?Hopefully once Barry comes back that will be him fit and he would be fit for us in the remaining games of the season.ââ?¬Â Meanwhile, Kirk Broadfoot hopes to find a cure for his foot problem after visiting a specialist yesterday. Smith said: ââ?¬Å?Kirk is seeing a specialist in London. Heââ?¬â?¢s had a bit of trouble with his foot and hopefully he can find a solution to the problem. ââ?¬Å?He is now pain-free, except when he kicks a ball, which is a problem for a footballer!ââ?¬Â http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/article2417724.ece

by Lindsay Herron RICHARD GOUGH has insisted that Davie Weir should stay at Rangers for another year - because he is such a steadying influence. Weir will be be 39 on Sunday but Gough, who played to the same age as Davie's defensive partner at Everton, reckons age is no barrier. David WeirThe 9 in a row skipper feels Weir can still be a key man and he hopes a deal can be struck. Gough, back in Scotland to promote Setanta's coverage of Saturday's Old Firm game, said: "The last two or three weeks have been unsettling for the club and I think Davie Weir has been a steadying influence. "I am going up to Murray Park tomorrow to see the lads so I will have a chat with him then. "I would love to see him do another season if he feels capable of doing so. "I finished with Everton when I was 39 but I felt I could have played for another year. I stopped for family reasons. "I suppose only he and Walter Smith can decide if he will stay but I hope it happens. "I think he has really helped Bougherra settle in - much in the same way - I hope - that I helped Davie 10 years ago at Everton. "Davie is a settling influence on any player because he is calm and he reads the game very well."

By Andrew Dickson THE leading scorer of Rangers goals in Old Firm games, it was in the derbies against Celtic that Ally McCoist made his name as a Light Blues legend. Now he feels Kris Boyd is ready to follow in his footsteps as the prolific striker looks to fire the Ibrox outfit to a win against their biggest rivals this weekend. Ally McCoist and Kris Boyd in trainingThis season has been the former Kilmarnock man's best since he made the short move from Rugby Park in January 2006. Having taken his tally for the club into three figures when he notched his 100th Gers goal against St Mirren last month, he now stands on 30 for the campaign. It's a good return from the prolific striker and while many have come to expect that sort of thing from him, there's still a lot of satisfaction to be taken from what he has done. Boyd has undoubtedly become a more rounded player in recent months, progressing from the lazy, immobile forward many looked upon him as previously. Now showing more intelligence and a greater work ethic, he is one of the most valuable members of Walter Smith's squad. One of the criticisms that still hang over Boyd's head is his lack of goals against Celtic. In 18 career appearances against them, he has just one to his credit. The second anniversary of that sole counter was yesterday and it goes without saying that he's keen to end the drought on Saturday. Ally McCoist talks to Kris Boyd in trainingThere's nobody better for Boyd to learn from than McCoist, someone who struck competitively on 27 occasions against the Parkhead side for Rangers over 15 years. Smith's deputy has heard all of the theories on the Ibrox number nine and knows he's one of those players people either love or hate. But the one thing he insists nobody can dispute is his ability to score - and McCoist is convinced Boyd's got what it takes to see off Celtic. "Kris is a man with a lot of confidence at the moment and his total against Celtic is just a statistic," he said. "We all know Boydy can score against anybody. "He has scored at international level and in European competitions as well as in domestic games so there's no doubting what he can do. "I really hope this is a game that is set up for him. When you look at strikers and some of the things that are written in stars for them, I hope this is one of them. "Kris has a terrific season and it was a wonderful achievement for him to reach 100 goals for the club recently. Ally McCoist shouts orders to Kris Boyd during a game"So early in his Rangers career, I hope it's the first hundred of many and you never know what could happen. I certainly wish him luck with that. "People earn their luck and if Boydy were to get the winner this weekend against Celtic, nobody would be more pleased about it than me. I include Kris in that. " Boyd has been in a situation similar to this one before and back in December, he was given his chance to shine in the derby at Ibrox. Going into the game, he had 18 goals in as many matches under his belt including hat-tricks against Inverness and Hamilton. But when his opportunity to strike against Celtic came, Artur Boruc saved his shot just after half-time and Scott McDonald's effort later ensured the visitors won 1-0. This time Boyd has six goals from his last six appearances and he's one of the most in-form players in the country. While he didn't make the most of his opportunity just over four months ago, McCoist thinks he can this time and added: "This could be a second chance for him in that respect. Kris Boyd"Back in December, Barry Ferguson played a good ball through to Kris and, after he took a touch, the keeper saved his shot. That happens. "He would have been disappointed to miss that chance but that's got nothing to do with the situation we're in now. "Kris needed to get his head up and move on at the end of last year and he did that. He has scored some great goals between then and now. "He's obviously forgotten about that miss, just as we have. There's no use in looking back at it because it doesn't make any difference now. "If Kris has a chance to score on Sunday, I'd definitely have my money on him to do it because one thing he won't be worrying about is chances he's missed in games gone by."

KYLE LAFFERTY is expecting a tough match when Celtic come calling on Saturday, but the Northern Ireland man is desperate to play his part in what he describes as the biggest game of the season. Kyle Lafferty celebrates scoring against HeartsThe 21-year-old returned to the top team as a substitute against Hearts last weekend and is now battling for a place in Walter Smith's starting eleven for this weekend's title showdown. Lafferty has yet to come out of an Old Firm meeting on the winning side, having missed the 4-2 victory in August, but he says the squad have been unlucky in recent matches with their rivals. He said: "It's going to be a hard game because Celtic are a good team but I think if we go about it in the right manner we'll be ok. "We have to have the heart for this game because it's one of the biggest of the season. Top spot is up for grabs and everybody is looking forward to it. "I think in most of the games this season we have had our fair share of the ball and have caused them some problems. "But in games like this one a team can go out and play like that and not get the win. That can happen and then maybe you don't play at your best but nick one. Kyle Lafferty"It can come down to which team has more heart and more determination, so it should be an interesting one." The young forward has fared well personally in his Old Firm battles, having been handed a lone striker's role at Parkhead and made life difficult for Andreas Hinkel in the League Cup final. Now he his hoping to leave the collective disappointment of that game behind him - by hitting the net against Celtic and firing Rangers toward the SPL title. He added: "No disrespect to the cup, but I think it's obvious that everyone wants to win the league title so I think this one is massive - by far the biggest game of the season for us. Kyle Lafferty celebrates his goal against Hearts"There's a lot at stake but whoever loses won't be finished for the season. After the Old Firm game there are three very tough games for both sides so there could be a few twists still to come in the league. "Personally I've just enjoyed being out there. Everyone wants to play against the best teams and Celtic are one of the best in the league and as a young player I just want to experience that again. "It was good to play up front too and it was a real boost that the gaffer gave me that role and showed he had confidence in me to play that position. "If I get the same chance again I just have to give it my all and hopefully come out on the winning side this time. "Hopefully I can get myself back in there and get the goals that will win us the title."

May 6 2009 By Keith Jackson RANGERS are set to go to war with SPL bosses over a fixture row for the second season on the trot as the race for the title goes down to the wire. Record Sport understands the Ibrox club's hierarchy are seething over what they regard as the "grossly unfair" rescheduling of the third and fourth rounds of post-split matches - switches which will give Celtic's players an extra TWO DAYS resting time between games. And their anger was intensified yesterday when it was announced that manager Walter Smith's 'favourite' linesman Tom Murphy will be running the line for referee Craig Thomson at this Saturday's Judgment Day Old Firm derby. Smith launched an astonishing attack on Murphy in November after the official's offside decision denied Kris Boyd a late winner in a 0-0 draw at Fir Park. The Rangers boss was asked to explain his comments to the SFA after saying on the night: "It was a poor decision by the linesman. I think the TV replays show quite clearly that Kris was onside. "Mr Murphy was quick to allow a Scott McDonald goal at Celtic Park last season. And he was quick to disallow that one tonight. "And people always say we are the club who never get any decisions against us! "But that's two goals we have scored this season at Aberdeen and Motherwell that the linesmen have got wrong." Now Murphy will be under the spotlight again for the match which might decide the destiny of this year's title fight. But while Rangers are in no position to complain about Murphy's appointment, they HAVE contacted the league's top brass to demand an explanation as to why they have been forced into playing two crucial matches in the space of two and a half days next week. The simmering resentment comes 12 months after Smith blamed the SPL for wrecking his chances of a historic UEFA Cup triumph AND domestic title glory by forcing his men to play four games in eight days in an exhausting season finale. Now Rangers are furious again as they slug it out with Celtic once more. An SPL source confirmed to Record Sport last night that the Ibrox club's chief executive Martin Bain has expressed his outrage over the decision to make Rangers travel to face Hibs next Wednesday night - then have them back in action against Aberdeen little more than 60 hours later on Saturday lunchtime. Celtic, meanwhile, take on Dundee United at Parkhead on Tuesday night - but the champions will then have over 100 hours rest before they are next in action at Easter Road. Our source said: "Rangers are clearly unhappy about the way the games have been rescheduled for TV. "They feel aggrieved because Celtic have an extra couple of days off between these matches but it's been explained that this is simply down to an oversight."

By Ronnie Cully and Thomas Jordan OLD FIRM sharpshooters Scott McDonald and Kris Boyd will walk a title suspension tightrope in this weekend's derby collision at Ibrox. Both hitmen are sitting on 15 disciplinary points and a yellow card would rule them out of the last day of the season fixtures on Sunday, May 24. Boyd has been under threat of a one-game ban since he was cautioned at St Mirren on April 8, but the 30-goal striker has so far managed to stay out of trouble. advertisement If, however, he is booked against Celtic then he would sit out Rangers trip to Dundee United on the last day. McDonald has accumulated points at a rapid rate in the past few weeks after referee Dougie McDonald cautioned him in the back-to-back games against Aberdeen at Parkhead on April 18 and again at Pittodrie last Saturday. Another booking on Saturday and the in-form Aussie would be missing when Hearts come to Parkhead on what could yet be a title-deciding day. Celtic skipper Stephen McManus - who is stuggling to recover in time to play at Ibrox after limping off with a knee injury at Pittodrie - is also on the 15-point mark and one booking away from a ban, but he is now unlikely to feature. Both managers were today beginning to piece together their teams ahead of what is a titanic encounter in terms of the destination of this season's title. Celtic are already without the suspended Scott Brown, but boss Gordon Strachan hopes to have Georgios Samaras and Barry Robson available to him. Rangers gaffer Walter Smith has been boosted by the news Sasa Papac is set to be fit after a knee problem. The Bosnian defender is likely to return at left-back, leaving Stevie Smith to add some bite and dig in a midfield roles in front of him. There is also a chance of Kirk Broadfoot making a surprise recovery from the foot problem that has side-lined for almost two months. Smith, who also welcomes centre-half Madjid Bougherra back from suspension after he sat out Sunday's 2-0 win over Hearts, said: "Sasa has a chance of being fit. "We thought he would be fit for the Hearts game, but just failed to make it so I imagine he'll be okay for the Old Firm game. "Kirk is also back in training this week, but whether he will be ready for the game or not we will have to wait and see. "It was also good to get Kyle Lafferty a run-out last weekend after five weeks out, so we have players coming back and that increases the options." http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2506183.0.0.php

KEVIN THOMSON has pleaded with Walter Smith: Make me Rangers captain. Midfielder Thommo, 24, has been crocked since November with a serious knee injury. But he revealed heââ?¬â?¢s set to be back playing in time for the start of next season. And he would love to take shamed Barry Fergusonââ?¬â?¢s place as Ibrox skipper. Thomson said: ââ?¬Å?Tony Mowbray made me his captain at Hibs, Iââ?¬â?¢ve captained the Scotland B side and now been lucky enough to be linked with the armband here. That is a big honour for me. ââ?¬Å?I donââ?¬â?¢t know why I am seen as a leader or potential captain, but itââ?¬â?¢s something I would thrive on. ââ?¬Å?Iââ?¬â?¢m sure guys like Tony Mowbray have seen attributes in me to be a leader.ââ?¬Â Davie Weir took over when Ferguson was stripped of the captaincy. But Thomson, who was crocked against Kilmarnock, would love to take the role in the long-term. He added: ââ?¬Å?Itââ?¬â?¢s flattering. ââ?¬Å?Iââ?¬â?¢m pretty sure Iââ?¬â?¢m speaking on behalf of the 25 first-team boys at Rangers when I say that to be linked with the captainââ?¬â?¢s armband is a massive honour. ââ?¬Å?Any pro at any club would feel that, but especially when itââ?¬â?¢s a club the size of Rangers. ââ?¬Å?Iââ?¬â?¢m sure any individual at Murray Park would die to be captain of a great club like this. ââ?¬Å?But getting fit and back playing is the only thing that really bothers me at the moment.ââ?¬Â Thommo admitted his five-month rehab has been hard. He added: ââ?¬Å?Itââ?¬â?¢s been tough. From a point where you played one or two games a week to a situation where you struggle to put your socks on, is a bit of a shock. ââ?¬Å?From day one I have had to show real mental strength and character and thatââ?¬â?¢s stood me in good stead to get back playing. ââ?¬Å?Iââ?¬â?¢ve worked ever so hard as well and hopefully if I do get through this the rewards will come.ââ?¬Â http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/article2411490.ece