View Full Version : Rangers
This is the official Rangers thread, if you don't care about Rangers then why bother to complain, instead you could just ignore the thread, however if you do care about them then talk about it here.
Tusday 23rd of March
Rangers 4-1 Dunfermline At Ibrox
Hutton opens the scoring from a corner within the first minute.
Lovenkrands then scored with a beutiful volley after a lay-off from Gavin Rae.
21' in, Andy Todd scores a header at the back post in Dunfermline's first attack.
Ronald de Boer then scored almost straight away as Rangers gained a second wind.
2' later Michael Mols scored from a low shot after turning the defender with his trademark style. 4-1 to Rangers and the game wrapped up after just 28'.
38' in to the game, The Dunfermline scorer was subbed off for Craig Brewster
Ronald de Boer was subbed off at half time to allow Steven Thompson a run out. Dunfermline replaced Aaron Labonte with Richie Bryne.
Rangers didn't really make too much effort in the second half and why should they.
Lovenkrands was taken off for Chris Burke, who received a standing ovation on the 62' mark.
Youngster Barjjam Fetai came on for the last 15'
Klos 6/10
Alan Hutton 8/10
Khizanishvilli 7/10
F. de Boer 8/10
Ball 7/10
Rae 8/10
Malcolm 8/10
Hughes 8/10
Lovenkrands 9/10
Mols 8/10
R. de Boer 7/10
SUBS.
Thompson 5/10
Burke 7/10
Fetai 6/10
The Dutch midfielder, Said Boutahar, has emerged as a potential replacement for the outgoing playmaker Mikel Arteta.
Reports from Holland suggest that the 22-year-old, who will leave Eredivisie strugglers RKC Waalwijk in the summer, has been recommended to Alex McLeish by Jan Wouters, the first team coach at Ibrox.
Boutahar was a product of the Feyenoord youth development system and graduated at the same time as his close friend and international midfielder, Robin van Persie.
He was unable to hold down a first team place in Rotterdam but has flourished under the former West Brom and Feyenoord favourite, Martin Jol, at RKC and regards Rangers as the ideal platform to showcase his talents to the Dutch national coach, Dick Advocaat.
Last night, the RKC technical director, Marcel Brands, admitted he was powerless to prevent Boutahar's departure but predicted a bright future for him in the Premierleague, despite drawing comparisons between the son of Moroccan parents and the Celtic misfit, Bobby Petta.
“He is small but very technical and likes to play behind the front two," said Brands. “He is a classic No.10. In terms of style the closest comparison I can think of is Bobby Petta.
“If he goes to Rangers, it will be a good move for him because they are a much bigger club than us and I know how much he wants to play for the Dutch national team.”
Arteta has already expressed his desire to return home to Spain and will be allowed to leave Rangers for around £3m. Boutahar would cost nothing and earn a fraction of Arteta's £25,000-per-week.
It would represent a sound piece of business for a club attempting to reduce its £68m debt, with wages the main contributory factor, but Brands insists Boutahar will not prove a cheap imitation.
Anyone heard much of this player? Is he any good?
So what will the team be for the big OF game at Ibrox on Sunday. Mcleish has said that Hutton will play, and F. de Boer has an outside chance.
.............................. ..Klos........................ ......
.......Hutton...............Mo ore...............Ball........ .
.............................. .............................. .......
.......Burke................Ma lcolm.......Lovenkrands...
.............................. ..Rae......................... .....
.............................. .............................. .......
.............................R . de Boer.........................
...............Thompson....... .......Mols...................
Klos is a cert.
Hutton also looks a cert with Mcleish already giving him his backing.
Moore will play obviously.
Ball will definately play because Vanoli is not good enough to take his place.
Burke has to play, he has been our best player against Celtic all season.
Malcolm has been brilliant and will most likely be given a role of picking up Petrov from attacking midfield.
Lovenkrands is our only left sided winger who has ability. He is on top form right now and will be looking to improve on his 13 goals this season.
Rae is a good box to box midfielder who is linking up well with R. de Boer and Lovenkrands lately.
R. de Boer could never be left out of the squad, we will be relying on him to put the passes through the Celtic defence and to pick up the ball and take it from midfield.
Mols will hope for a ball to feet where he can turn the defenders and get in for a shot.
Thompson is a tall striker and we hope he can get on to any of Burke's and Lovenkrands' crosses.
Lisbon67Seville03
27-03-2004, 06:57
there are no doubts that rangers' are on the rise after that barren spell earlier in the season. sunday's old firm can either confirm celtic as champions(not numerically, but psychologically) or be rangers' last attempt at ressurecting the season. we welcome the challenge, however. i think this seasons, domestically, has been boring. its not as good. last season, while we lost and it was gutting, was so exciting and amazing. the fact that it was only two goals or something between the teams was amazing. best of luck gers.
Hopefully next season we will be challenging again. With Arteta being bought by the Royal Ballet association for £3m and Ricksen can fuck off and explore the continent, Hutton is much better anyway, he better play on Sunday. Surely a new striker in and Boumsong, a French internationalist and a powerhouse in defence, something we don't currently.
I personally think that unless Celtic find another Larsson and Rangers buy the right players within 2 years we will be clear champions. Sorry. :p
Gizmondo
27-03-2004, 15:49
I totally agree. We are definately on the up and we've started playing more Scottish players-coincidence? I think not.
RANGERS are lining up a double swoop on cash-strapped Livingston, with wing back David McNamee and centre-half Marvin Andrews the targets as manager Alex McLeish begins his rebuilding programme at the club.
Assistant manager Andy Watson was at Almondvale on Wednesday to watch McNamee score in the 3-2 defeat by Dundee United while first-team coach Jan Wouters ran the rule over the pair in Livingston’s Scottish Cup win over Aberdeen the previous Thursday.
McNamee made history earlier in the week by becoming the first Livvy player to be named in a Scotland squad when Berti Vogts selected the wingback for Wednesday’s friendly against Romania at Hampden.
The 23 year-old has been a major success in the SPL since returning from Blackburn Rovers and was a key member of the side that won the CIS Cup earlier this season.
While young full back Alan Hutton has impressed, McNamee is deemed a more attractive prospect.
Andrews, the 29 year-old Trinidad and Tobago stopper, would almost certainly be released without a transfer fee.
Ewing Grahame – Daily Mirror
Lisbon67Seville03
29-03-2004, 02:34
Hopefully next season we will be challenging again. With Arteta being bought by the Royal Ballet association for £3m and Ricksen can fuck off and explore the continent, Hutton is much better anyway, he better play on Sunday. Surely a new striker in and Boumsong, a French internationalist and a powerhouse in defence, something we don't currently.
I personally think that unless Celtic find another Larsson and Rangers buy the right players within 2 years we will be clear champions. Sorry. :p
this season larsson hasnt been our best player. granted we will need another striker to fill the void, but with physical guys like sutton and hartson i dont see us slipping up until at least sutton leaves (which will be in a few years as he is getting on) but hartson, despite his size and aged looks, is actually younger than thompson. and if craig beattie can be well developed he can really become something. maybe not even a striker, as he has the pace(but not the distribution) to be a right winger. also, we have found what we've been missing for many many years, a quality keeper. David Marshall should be playing for scotland right now, who cares if he's only 19.
im not denying, however, that the current rangers team is much better than the team we played even in january. that was some game today (sunday). boumsong should be good, but will he recover completely from his skull fracture? surely that might mean he'll be a little bit moe cautious going up for headers. and he'll be facing big chris and big bad john.
boumsong should be good, but will he recover completely from his skull fracture? surely that might mean he'll be a little bit moe cautious going up for headers.
That's a good point, but I doubt that he will be to bothered by that.
You're right, Larsson has not been your best player this year but he is still irreplaceable, or is he? We'll see whether O'neill improves on his already very inpressive record of signing people. To think, Celtic were so close to signing Emerson.
A good performance from Rangers which would have been enough against any other team in the spl, but not Celtic.
Rangers had most of the possesion throughout the game but failed to make much of an impact until Burke and Thompson came on in the second half.
Larsson opened the scoring in the first half from a freekick when he cunningly slipped away from Michael Ball and headed the ball into the net.
Alan Thompson then scored early in the second half when Klos could only blocked Larsson's shot which fell to Thompson's feet for him to knock it in.
Rangers made 2 important changes within the next 10 minutes. First Chris Burke was brought on then Steven Thompson was brought on.
Rangers pulled one back in the last ten minutes when Chris Burke's corner was met by the head of sub Steven Thompson.
Rangers pushed Celtic back for the last minutes, but never really looked like equalising
Klos 5/10
Ball 4/10
Moore 5/10
Khizanishvilli 5/10
Hutton 4/10
Lovenkrands 5/10
Hughes 4/10
Malcolm 5/10
Rae 5/10
Mols 5/10
R. de Boer 4/10
Burke 8/10
Thompson 7/10
Lisbon67Seville03
29-03-2004, 06:36
That's a good point, but I doubt that he will be to bothered by that.
You're right, Larsson has not been your best player this year but he is still irreplaceable, or is he? We'll see whether O'neill improves on his already very inpressive record of signing people. To think, Celtic were so close to signing Emerson.
larsson is irreplaceable, he's one of our only players who can drift totally out of a match and still produce the goods. and that's a good point on the old Emerson deal, what a mistake it would've been. Frankly, when I saw Rangers were signing him, i felt so close to feeling sorry for them. :D
RANGERS boss Alex McLeish has targeted Leeds hardman Danny Mills for a cut-price swoop this summer.
The England full-back is on loan at Middlesbrough until the end of the season and the Elland Road club are desperate to slash the wage bill.
McLeish feels the combative Mills would be the ideal player to fire up a dressing room which has been lacking in passion this season.
Leeds’ new board will listen to offers for Mills and would be prepared to sell the defender for as little as £1million. With Fernando Ricksen stalling over a new deal, the Ibrox club have targeted the player, despite the emergence of rookie Alan Hutton.
Middlesbrough have first option, but Leeds are not sure if the Carling Cup winners will make Mills move permanent and this has alerted McLeish.
Rangers had an enquiry for Mills, who is due to play against Sweden tonight, rejected by Leeds two years ago, but they have renewed their interest.
Gers' financial problems, though, could be a stumbling block with 26 year-old Mills having four years left on his lucrative £30,000-a-week contract.
Birmingham are also long-term admirers of Mills and Blues boss Steve Bruce has failed with two bids for him.
Mills was previously reluctant to uproot his young family from their north Yorkshire home, but the lure of European football should tempt the right-back into a switch.
David Anderson, Daily Mirror
RANGERS could be facing glamour sides Feyenoord, Sporting Lisbon and Newcastle United in a prestigious pre-season tournament at St James's Park before the start of next season.
The Club has confirmed that discussions have taken place about taking part in the four-team tournament which would be held on Saturday, July 31 and Sunday, August 1 but a contract has not yet been signed.
It would be a tremendous warm-up for the new campaign, especially as the SPL starts on Saturday. August 7 and the Champions League qualifiers fall on August 11 and 25.
Former Newcastle boss Ruud Gullit is taking over at Feyenoord in the summer so his return to the north-east could be interesting and Sir Bobby Robson used to manage Sporting, taking them to the Portguese title.
Rangers have sour memories of their most recent clashes with Feyenoord as the Dutch side knocked the Light Blues out en route to the UEFA Cup in 2002.
We will bring you confirmation of all of the details as soon as we have them.
Jonny Wilkinson
01-04-2004, 00:29
Thats good. Celtic always play the big teams in friendlys and we've always played pure crappy teams with the exception of Arsenal and Everton.
Rangers Football Club is pleased to announce a three-year agreement with China Super League side Shenzhen Jianlibao.
The two clubs will co-operate in a number of areas including:
· Youth player development
· Coaching techniques and best practice
· Sports science, injury prevention and treatment
· Exhibition matches, tours and tournaments
· Franchising, sponsorship and merchandising rights
· Development of commercial revenue streams
The objectives of the agreement are to:
· Foster friendship between the two football clubs, their supporters and the cities of Glasgow and Shenzhen
· Work together to exploit mutually beneficial commercial opportunities
· Exchange knowledge in commercial and football matters
Welcoming the agreement at a Press Conference held today in Shenzhen, Rangers Chairman John McClelland explained why the Scottish giants had decided to invest their experience and expertise in Chinese football and why they had asked Shenzhen Jianlibao to be their partner.
He said: “China and Shenzhen in particular has tremendous potential. I have worked in this area of China for around 15 years and believe that SJFC characterises the tremendous energy of the area.
"Rangers has ambitions to extend its brand worldwide and we hope our partnership with SJFC can help us tap into this energy and raise our profile in China.”
Retail Director Nick Peel said: “SJFC has shown an interest in developing the commercial side of their football club and, given that this is a particular strength of Rangers, we are assisting them to this end.
"I will be hosting a commercial seminar in Shenzhen on this trip and will continue to offer assistance and support to the commercial staff at SJFC in the future.
"We will also be working together to exploit mutually beneficial commercial opportunities arising out of the relationship.”
From a football perspective George Adams, Head of Rangers Youth Development, outlined the potential that has prompted Rangers to commit to the partnership.
He said: “I have been very impressed with the progress made by the Chinese national team in recent years and have followed the progress of Sun Jihai and Li Tie in the EPL recently with interest.
"SJFC place a strong emphasis on youth development and now have 7 homegrown players in the full national team.
"I hope to be able to assist them in future development and having a ‘hands-on’ role in the development of young players at SJFC will enable Rangers to keep an eye on some of the best young talent in China.”
Shenzhen Jianlibao General Manager Zhang Jian expressed his delight at the deal.
He said: “First of all, we warmly welcome Mr John McClelland, Mr Nick Peel and Mr George Adams from Rangers FC, as well as Mr Dan Fletcher from FMMI, to visit Shenzhen.
“As a representative of Scottish football, Rangers FC has a history of more than 100 years of sustained success during which they have achieved very great titles and honours in Scotland’s Premier League as well as in European competition.
"Rangers FC also has made excellent achievements in the areas of market development, commercial exploitation and supporter services through a well-established management system.
“Through the introduction of FMMI, and after nearly one year’s pre-discussion and preparatory works, Jianlibao FC and Rangers FC will carry out full-scale co-operation concerning the coaching of young players, commercial development, brand construction and intelligence communication.
"During their visit to Shenzhen, the officials of Rangers FC will hold specific discussions and offer their experiences to the staff of Jianlibao FC. Later, they will visit our training camp in Sanshui, see our young players training and hold discussions with the coaches.
“We wish Rangers FC a very successful visit to Shenzhen, and look forward to the successful co-operation between the two clubs in the future, and thanks again for the great assistance from FMMI!”
FMMInternational is the sole and exclusive agent responsible for managing and marketing all aspects of the agreement between Shenzhen Jianlibao and Rangers.
FMMI Director of Global Operations, Dan Fletcher stated: “Rangers have won more trophies than any other club in the world.
"In terms of their commercial capability few clubs can equal them. Jianlibao will benefit enormously from having access to this level of expertise and experience.
“Equally, Jianlibao are one of the foremost clubs in China, with a long tradition of success, huge ambition and a deep commitment to building a strong youth development programme.
"Rangers stands to gain through this and from Jianlibao’s knowledge and understanding of the Chinese market. This partnership has the potential to substantially benefit both football clubs and FMMI is delighted to be working with them on this exciting project.”
Rangers boss Alex McLeish is considering a summer rescue bid to pluck Scotland golden boy James McFadden from Everton’s reserves.
McFadden came off the bench to light up Hampden with a magical solo goal in Wednesday’s dismal 2-1 defeat by Romaina.
And that cameo appearance has whetted the appetite of McLeish who had been tempted to move for McFadden last summer before the youngster quit Motherwell for Merseyside in a £1.5million deal.
But with McFadden struggling to make the grade at Goodison, and McLeish preparing for a mass summer cull of his own squad, the move could be resurrected.
The 20-year-old has featured in just one of Everton’s last 13 games and McLeish plans to monitor McFadden’s situation closely between now and the end of the season.
Should he fail to hold down a regular place in Davie Moyes’ side, McLeish is likely to test the water by register his interest in taking the maverick north for the new season.
A top level Ibrox source said: “Alex has been an admirer of McFadden for some time – in fact he went on record last year to say just how highly he rates him.
“He is obviously aware that the player has fallen out of the first team picture and has not found it easy to adjust to life in the Premiership.
“But Wednesday night’s performance proved the lad still has what it takes.
“If his situation at Everton does not change in the coming weeks then obviously there could be a chance for us to do business.
“But that will also depend on which players leave Ibrox in the summer and how much money is raised.
“Let’s just say at this stage that McFadden is certainly a name that is interesting us.”
Keith Jackson – Daily Record
........................Klos.. .......................
....Hutton......F. de Boer..Moore.....Ball..
.............................. ........................
......................Malcolm. .....................
....Namouchi..Hughes...Rae..Wa lker........
.............................. ........................
......................Thompson ...................
Klos is a cert.
Hutton has played brilliantly for Rangers and Mcleish would rather have him than Ricksen who will not commit to Rangers.
F. de Boer looks to be recovering from his injury and is likely to start.
Moore has no injuries or suspensions and will surely start.
Ball is playing well and has no genuine competition.
Malcolm is proving invaluable now in the holding midfield role.
With both Burke and de Boer injured, Namouchi could be given a game.
Hughes is player of the month for March which shows that he is playing brilliantly for the Rangers midfield.
Rae is also playing brilliantly.
Walker is a youngster who has been playing brilliantly in the under-19s and has been tipped to start ahead of Lovenkrands who has a slight knee injury.
Thompson played brilliantly against Celtic when he came on as a sub, he is a big tall striker who Rangers really need up front.
This isn't the official Rangers thread you fucking moron since it isn't endorsed by them. your ability to copy and paste is astounding but I'm sure anyone who gives a damn can find those stories for themselves. I'm looking for an excuse to ban you, feel free to give me one.
There is an "Official Wolves thread" so why can't there be an "official Rangers thread".
Yes most of the posts in this thread are from the rangersworld website, but they are easier to find here.
Go on ban me, I'd love to see you lose your rights as a mod.
Gizmondo
03-04-2004, 03:49
Wasn't that a bit harsh Alvin?
Me, being a lazy git found it quite handy.
Lisbon67Seville03
03-04-2004, 05:15
Rangers boss Alex McLeish is considering a summer rescue bid to pluck Scotland golden boy James McFadden from Everton’s reserves.
McFadden came off the bench to light up Hampden with a magical solo goal in Wednesday’s dismal 2-1 defeat by Romaina.
And that cameo appearance has whetted the appetite of McLeish who had been tempted to move for McFadden last summer before the youngster quit Motherwell for Merseyside in a £1.5million deal.
But with McFadden struggling to make the grade at Goodison, and McLeish preparing for a mass summer cull of his own squad, the move could be resurrected.
The 20-year-old has featured in just one of Everton’s last 13 games and McLeish plans to monitor McFadden’s situation closely between now and the end of the season.
Should he fail to hold down a regular place in Davie Moyes’ side, McLeish is likely to test the water by register his interest in taking the maverick north for the new season.
A top level Ibrox source said: “Alex has been an admirer of McFadden for some time – in fact he went on record last year to say just how highly he rates him.
“He is obviously aware that the player has fallen out of the first team picture and has not found it easy to adjust to life in the Premiership.
“But Wednesday night’s performance proved the lad still has what it takes.
“If his situation at Everton does not change in the coming weeks then obviously there could be a chance for us to do business.
“But that will also depend on which players leave Ibrox in the summer and how much money is raised.
“Let’s just say at this stage that McFadden is certainly a name that is interesting us.”
Keith Jackson – Daily Record
highly doubt it as he could get as much money as rangers could offer at Celtic or Everton and he is a die-hard tim.
Celtic have not showed an interest.
Everton could not compete wage wise with Rangers.
And Celtic would struggle as well.
First half was dominated by Motherwell, until the very end of it when Stephen Hughes managed to place the ball in the bottom corner.
Alex Walker was given his first runout for Rangers and looked impressive.
Final score 1-0 to Rangers.
Referee John Rowbotham had a poor game, pulling out cards for small incidents and not booking players when he should have.
Klos 8/10
Ball 5/10
F. de Boer 8/10
Moore 6/10
Hutton 4/10
Vanoli 3/10
Rae 5/10
Hughes 6/10
Namouchi 5/10
Thompson 3/10
Mols 5/10
subs;
Ross 6/10
Walker 5/10
Flipper the Priest
05-04-2004, 01:58
I thought 'Well deserved a point.
Not like United yesterday!!
UNITED!! SHITE!! UNITED!! SHITE!!
Lisbon67Seville03
05-04-2004, 23:59
First half was dominated by Motherwell, until the very end of it when Stephen Hughes managed to place the ball in the bottom corner.
Alex Walker was given his first runout for Rangers and looked impressive.
Final score 1-0 to Rangers.
Referee John Rowbotham had a poor game, pulling out cards for small incidents and not booking players when he should have.
Klos 8/10
Ball 5/10
F. de Boer 8/10
Moore 6/10
Hutton 4/10
Vanoli 3/10
Rae 5/10
Hughes 6/10
Namouchi 5/10
Thompson 3/10
Mols 5/10
subs;
Ross 6/10
Walker 5/10
rowbotham was pretty harsh, and thats coming from a celtic fan. 'Well did deserve something out of the game, but all credit to rangers for keeping the title dream alive, however dead that dream may be.
Gizmondo
06-04-2004, 01:25
We certainly wouldn't have got anything from the game if it weren't for Klos.
Lisbon67Seville03
06-04-2004, 10:00
We certainly wouldn't have got anything from the game if it weren't for Klos.
the title wouldve been mathematically won a long time ago if it werent for stefan klos. hes the only player in the rangers team that would get into Celtic, altho with marshall beginning to show us what he can do that might not be true anymore.
hes the only player in the rangers team that would get into Celtic, altho with marshall beginning to show us what he can do that might not be true anymore.
Marshall looks good, but you couldn't turn down Klos.
What about Burke, I can't think who you're right winger is, Agathe? If it's Agathe then Burkey could get in, not that he'd want to.
Lisbon67Seville03
07-04-2004, 00:31
Marshall looks good, but you couldn't turn down Klos.
What about Burke, I can't think who you're right winger is, Agathe? If it's Agathe then Burkey could get in, not that he'd want to.
i thought burke was a tim. no, agathe moments of magic in european games mean burke really couldnt. burke would maybe make the subs bench but he's much slower and not as tricky as didier. his performance in europe this season has been great at times. as for klos and marshall, in 5 years if marshall is still going the way he is, then the current klos wont get in. but right now i think klos would. not that he will or that he'd want to.
i thought burke was a tim.
Burke's dads is a tim, but Burkey himself is a hun.
much slower and not as tricky as didier.
Have you seen him dribble. Agathe may have more pace, but Burkey has better control and quicker feet when it comes to dribbling.
Jonny Wilkinson
07-04-2004, 01:50
Have you seen him dribble. Agathe may have more pace, but Burkey has better control and quicker feet when it comes to dribbling.
Burke can also deliver a great cross , something which Agathe very seldom does.
RANGERS unveiled their stunning new away kit at Murray Park today.
Steven Thompson, Chris Burke and recent signing Gavin Rae paraded the new gear and the Rangers World cameras were on hand to capture exclusive shots.
http://www.rangers.premiumtv.co.uk/content/rfc/media/db/S25/407081.JPEG
An improvement on this seasons kit but still not the best, still, at least Burkey didn't have a boner ala Neil Lennon.
RANGERS boss Alex McLeish is poised to clinch a swoop for Wolves' veteran midfielder Alex Rae – with the offer of a two-year contract.
Rae is desperate to join Gers and Molineux insiders have revealed there is no way he will be given the kind of contract he wants to re-sign.
Instead Rangers are poised to agree a deal with the far-travelled field marshall.
Rae has told pals that he will take a two-year deal from anyone in the summer and Rangers have stepped ahead of their rivals in the hunt.
The one-time Ibrox hopeful – shown the door as a teenager – would love the chance to end his career with his heroes and McLeish should be able to come up with the right terms.
Last night Rae said: “It would be flattering if Rangers were interested, but at the minute I am just trying to help Wolves.”
Alan Nixon, The Sun
Do we need another old midfielder on the wage bill?
Lisbon67Seville03
07-04-2004, 07:28
Do we need another old midfielder on the wage bill?
difference between alex rae and the other old-timers is that he is a lot more talented, think like a rangers version of neil lennon, without the boner. hehehe.
new away strip is much nicer than the candy stripe monstrosity, but its still kind of ugly. celtic and rangers need to just stick with two kits for the next three years, i really cant afford buying three celtic away tops in 1 1/2 seasons. the past two were nice (altho the new one looks more like a training kit, the black and gold is the nicest since the plain white one, but we were unlucky in that shirt) and the home top is very nice, but we east-enders cant afford it. can i get a hallelujah?
we've got a settled midfield now
...........Burke.............. ..........Malcolm............. ........Lovenkrands
.............................R ae............................ ............................
also we have some young'uns coming through and I don't know if we'll need another midfielder, apart from Kapo who we should get on a free from Auxerre but it's unlikely that Mcleish will want that.
And we have Arteta, if we ever have problems we can play Arteta, he gives 100% commitment. :rolleyes:
Lisbon67Seville03
07-04-2004, 07:42
we've got a settled midfield now
...........Burke.............. ..........Malcolm............. ........Lovenkrands
.............................R ae............................ ............................
also we have some young'uns coming through and I don't know if we'll need another midfielder, apart from Kapo who we should get on a free from Auxerre but it's unlikely that Mcleish will want that.
And we have Arteta, if we ever have problems we can play Arteta, he gives 100% commitment. :rolleyes:
but gavin rae isnt as good as his namesake, and kapo is supposedly already going to liverpool or something. not saying he wont go, im just saying it might be another michael brown situation where rangers are involved but dont have the resources.
but gavin rae isnt as good as his namesake, and kapo is supposedly already going to liverpool or something. not saying he wont go, im just saying it might be another michael brown situation where rangers are involved but dont have the resources.
You may be thinking about Cisse, he's going to Liverpool. Kapo wants to move to a team where he is quaranteed CL football, so Liverpool isn't an option.
Rangers do have the resources, he's out of contract anyway and no-one can touch him until the summer.
Gavin Rae is a brilliant player who is just one year away from his peak, 27 years. Alex Rae is 32? way past his best time.
RANGERS boss Alex McLeish is weighing up a sensational £4 million bid for England striker James Beattie.
The Southampton star- and not Wolves’ Alex Rae – was McLeish’s target when he watched the two clubs clash at the weekend.
Beattie, who scored in his side’s 4-1 win at Molineaux, impressed the Ibrox manager who is ready to swoop for the 6ft 1in hitman and at least six other new players in the summer.
The 26-year old attacker still has three years of his current contract left but has been used infrequently this season by Saints and has become frustrated at his lack of chances to impress England manager Sven Goran Eriksson ahead of Euro 2004.
A ratio of one goal every three games in the Premiership alerted McLeish who’s been tracking the powerful striker for months now and has made contact with his advisors.
Last night sources in the south revealed that Beattie would jump at the chance of joining Rangers: “James is desperate to play at the highest level and particularly in the Champions League and a move to Rangers would guarantee him European football every year.
“He feels it would also help his international career which has stagnated.
“He has been made aware of Rangers’ interest but it is up to the clubs to thrash things out before he can make any comment.”
With many players leaving in the summer, the wage bill will be drastically cut which will make it possible to pay for Beattie
China’s Player of the Year, Zheng Zhi, as part of their tie up with local club Shenzhen Jianlibao, is also tipped to arrive at Ibrox in December when the new Chinese Super League season ends.
Scottish internationalist Bob Malcolm will be out for six weeks. The defensive midfielder has been able to find a place in Rangers' midfield lately and will be sorely missed.
Lisbon67Seville03
08-04-2004, 08:59
RANGERS boss Alex McLeish is weighing up a sensational £4 million bid for England striker James Beattie.
The Southampton star- and not Wolves’ Alex Rae – was McLeish’s target when he watched the two clubs clash at the weekend.
Beattie, who scored in his side’s 4-1 win at Molineaux, impressed the Ibrox manager who is ready to swoop for the 6ft 1in hitman and at least six other new players in the summer.
The 26-year old attacker still has three years of his current contract left but has been used infrequently this season by Saints and has become frustrated at his lack of chances to impress England manager Sven Goran Eriksson ahead of Euro 2004.
A ratio of one goal every three games in the Premiership alerted McLeish who’s been tracking the powerful striker for months now and has made contact with his advisors.
Last night sources in the south revealed that Beattie would jump at the chance of joining Rangers: “James is desperate to play at the highest level and particularly in the Champions League and a move to Rangers would guarantee him European football every year.
“He feels it would also help his international career which has stagnated.
“He has been made aware of Rangers’ interest but it is up to the clubs to thrash things out before he can make any comment.”
With many players leaving in the summer, the wage bill will be drastically cut which will make it possible to pay for Beattie
im afraid im going to have to say that will be flat out rejected. the boy is worth at least 15 million and Mr. Sturrock knows it. Plus, Beattie wont leave guaranteed premiership football for Rangers, I mean no offense but it will not happen. he could move to Arsenal if he wanted to, why Rangers? Let's face it, the Old Firm get arse-knocked (ive cleaned up my language for the rest of lent) in terms of good players because of our opposition. sure, there is CL football, but most the players we are linked with can walk into other clubs who have it as well.
Lisbon67Seville03
08-04-2004, 09:00
[QUOTE=worldrecord50leagues]You may be thinking about Cisse, he's going to Liverpool. QUOTE]
i was thinking about Cisse. Cheers mate.
Alex McLeish has stepped up his chase for Croatian striker Dado Prso.
He flew to Monaco this week to see Prso help in action against Real Madrid in the CL.
But Mcleish will have to make a move quickly as Bolton have already opened talks to sign the striker who's contract at Monaco expires in the Summer.
McLeish will have to pay wages of around £25,000-a-week if he is to persuade the Croatian to join Rangers instead.
so far Alex Mcleish has shown an interest in;
GOALKEEPERS
Julian Speroni (Dundee)
DEFENDERS
Marvin Andrews (Livingston)
David Mcnamee (Livingston)
Danny Mills (Leeds)
MIDFIELDERS
Boutaharr (RKC Waalwijk)
Alex Rae (Wolves) - ruled out
STRIKERS
James McFadden (Everton)
James Beattie (Southhampton)
Zheng Zhi (Shenzhen Jianlibao)
Dado Prso (Monaco)
Nacho Novo (Dundee)
Clearly Mcleish is confident he will have the money to improve on this years poor squad.
ChelseaDave
09-04-2004, 05:23
would a move north of the border jepordise beattie's england prospects somewhat??? because in the premiership he will be playing top opposition week in week out pretty much, but in the spl he would only be getting 4 big games & the odd CL game every couple of weeks, depending on how far rangers get... saying that though, mcfadden would be a good buy for rangers, he's not getting a game at everton & it would be good for the club to rely on good scottish talent, instead of foreigners ala celtic with larsson...
would a move north of the border jepordise beattie's england prospects somewhat??? because in the premiership he will be playing top opposition week in week out pretty much, but in the spl he would only be getting 4 big games & the odd CL game every couple of weeks, depending on how far rangers get... saying that though, mcfadden would be a good buy for rangers, he's not getting a game at everton & it would be good for the club to rely on good scottish talent, instead of foreigners ala celtic with larsson...
a chelsea fan mentioning foriegners? rich that.
ChelseaDave
09-04-2004, 05:49
we have the most english internationals in our team out of the whole premiership thank you :) (that i can think of anyway) and damien duff is irish, which is part of the british isles...
we have the most english internationals in our team out of the whole premiership thank you :) (that i can think of anyway) and damien duff is irish, which is part of the british isles...
you have wayne bridge and john terry. the rest are 1st team internationals are they. and ireland isnt in the UK so according to FIFA he's a foriegner.
ChelseaDave
09-04-2004, 06:09
Lampard, Parker, Johnson & Cole u missed out. They might not be regulars, but they still have had caps for england.
Hmm, people still seem to be abiding by the old stereotype that Chelsea are a bunch of old foreigners, despite the recent influx of young English talent. Chelsea got slaughtered by the media and football pundits for having loads of foreigners in their team, but now look at Arsenal and Liverpool and there's hardly a word said about them!
Lisbon67Seville03
09-04-2004, 06:26
would a move north of the border jepordise beattie's england prospects somewhat??? because in the premiership he will be playing top opposition week in week out pretty much, but in the spl he would only be getting 4 big games & the odd CL game every couple of weeks, depending on how far rangers get... saying that though, mcfadden would be a good buy for rangers, he's not getting a game at everton & it would be good for the club to rely on good scottish talent, instead of foreigners ala celtic with larsson...
shaun maloney, craig beattie, ross wallace, john kennedy (save recovery), david marshall, aiden mcgeady, rocco quinn, jackie macnamara, paul lambert, rab douglas, jamie smith, stephen pearson. These names mean anything to you? They have all been capped at some level by Scotland and are all contracted to Celtic. we rely on good scottish talent more than rangers did earlier in the season. Hutton, Burke and co have changed that and it can only mean good things for Scottish football, but please think before you act, Celtic rely heavily on their Scottish talent.
ChelseaDave
09-04-2004, 08:23
shaun maloney, craig beattie, ross wallace, john kennedy (save recovery), david marshall, aiden mcgeady, rocco quinn, jackie macnamara, paul lambert, rab douglas, jamie smith, stephen pearson. These names mean anything to you? They have all been capped at some level by Scotland and are all contracted to Celtic. we rely on good scottish talent more than rangers did earlier in the season. Hutton, Burke and co have changed that and it can only mean good things for Scottish football, but please think before you act, Celtic rely heavily on their Scottish talent.
my mistake. i must say that Marshall is a quality keeper. he had a blinder against Barcelona & he made some good saves against rangers. definately one for the future. Stephen Pearson is a good player on the ball aswell, and Kennedy looks a good defender (had a great game against Barcelona), completely forgot about those.
Lisbon67Seville03
09-04-2004, 10:20
my mistake. i must say that Marshall is a quality keeper. he had a blinder against Barcelona & he made some good saves against rangers. definately one for the future. Stephen Pearson is a good player on the ball aswell, and Kennedy looks a good defender (had a great game against Barcelona), completely forgot about those.
not a problem, mate. the hype of celtic will be almost non-existant south of the border. shocking what happened to Kennedy tho, aweful challenge. Also good to see Chelsea involving more English boys, likes of Bridge, Terry, Lampard, Joey Cole, Carlton Cole and Johnson. Hope the first three make it too Euro 2004. Bridge has been better than Ash Cole this season in my opinion and Lampard has been the best player in the premiership. Terry/Campbell partnership, its almost too much physicality.
RANGERS on-loan striker Steven MacLean is a summer transfer for Hull City. The 21-year-old has been in sensational form at Scun_thorpe and is in the running for the Division Three Player of the Year title.
Former England boss Peter Taylor, now in charge at Hull city, has earmarked the player for his side who look certain to clinch promotion this season.
He said: "It’s certainly true to say to say that we are interested in Steven MacLean and I have been impressed on the occasions that I’ve been to watch him. His movement is good and he knows how to score goals. We have made an enquiry about his availability, although we realise that he is on loan away from Rangers at the moment."
"He is someone who I rate highly and has always done well when he’s played aganst us so I’ll have to wait and see what the position is going to be with him."
The youngster has always insisted that he would love the opportunity to establish himself at Ibrox and he has one year left to run on his deal.
Meanwhile Alex McLeish has confirmed that he watched Monaco star Dado Prso but says the Croat is not a top target.
McLeish admitted he was impressed by the striker but said he was just one name on a list of players he was looking at.
Gizmondo
09-04-2004, 21:50
If Steven McLean leaves the club, I'm going to be mighty angry.
I would much rather we had him than Prso, y'know the whole Scottish vibe thing.
Prso the proven striker in Europe or a young scot who is excelling in Div. 3?
Lisbon67Seville03
10-04-2004, 08:55
Prso the proven striker in Europe or a young scot who is excelling in Div. 3?
Prso isnt proven. He is well renound as being over-rated. Sure, he scored 4 against Deportivo, but his header was only because he is a big, tall fella and the rest were basically tap-ins in which giuly did all the work. Speaking of Giuly, what a performance against Real Madrid, really is a fantastic player.
Prso isnt proven. He is well renound as being over-rated. Sure, he scored 4 against Deportivo, but his header was only because he is a big, tall fella and the rest were basically tap-ins in which giuly did all the work. Speaking of Giuly, what a performance against Real Madrid, really is a fantastic player.
I he makes those tap-ins for Rangers then I'll be happy, we have enough creating strikers, (sort of) but we don't have a predator.
his header was only because he is a big tall fella
Is he supposed to shrink so that it's fairer on the defenders, he was using an advantage, if he uses it and scores then i won't complain.
Lisbon67Seville03
10-04-2004, 14:49
Is he supposed to shrink so that it's fairer on the defenders, he was using an advantage, if he uses it and scores then i won't complain.
totally man, good point. I didn't word it properly, I meant that he wasnt a very talented striker and one of his only strengths is that his height lets him win many headers.
Gizmondo
10-04-2004, 15:54
I'm just plain ol' sick of foreigners, I want Scottish players for a Scottish team.
We have a big tough guy anyway, and he's Scottish.
Lisbon67Seville03
11-04-2004, 13:05
I'm just plain ol' sick of foreigners, I want Scottish players for a Scottish team.
We have a big tough guy anyway, and he's Scottish.
Scottish players is all well and good. But maybe you should take an different viewpoint:
You want the best man for the job. If he's also Scottish, its an added bonus. Thats the Celtic viewpoint and look where its gotten us.
Gizmondo
11-04-2004, 20:07
Fair enough, but I have to say I would support Scotland over Rangers.
Lisbon67Seville03
12-04-2004, 03:59
Fair enough, but I have to say I would support Scotland over Rangers.
I can see the glimpses of your point, but overall it doesnt make any sense. There would be no reason for you to support one over the other as they will never be in competition with each other.
REAL ZARAGOZA have jumped to the top of the queue for Mikel Arteta after deciding to build their team around the Rangers playmaker.
The Spanish side have already been in touch with Arteta’s agent as they close in on the unsettled Ibrox star.
Zaragoza are currently battling relegation from La Liga but boss Victor, the former St. Mirren hero, has been told he will be able to rebuild next season.
Zaragoza also have UEFA Cup football to offer Arteta after Zaragoza’s 3-2 victory over Real Madrid in last month’s Copa del Rey final.
Victor has made a top class midfielder his No1 priority and sees Arteta, who has two years left on his Rangers deal, as his main man.
Champions League semi-finalists Monaco have been asking about Arteta but cannot afford his wages.
Atletico Madrid are still hoping to convince Arteta to return to Spain but they also have the same problem as Monaco as they struggle to find the cash to match his current salary at Rangers.
Rangers have beaten West Ham to win the race for Trinidad and Tobago’s top talent Kenwyne Jones. The teenage defender headed to Ibrox last night to sort out terms on a dream move to the Gers', – after deciding against a move to the Hammers. Jones has been on trial with Rangers before and impressed their coaching staff, who recommended the deal to boss Alex McLeish. But West Ham also had a look at Jones and were prepared to offer £300,000 before the youngster opted for the SPL. Jones has made an impact since making his full debut for Trinidad – and he could even line up against Scotland next month.
ALEX McLEISH has revealed that Danish winger Peter Lovenkrands is unlikely to play again this season after doctors advised his troublesome knee requires around a month's rest.
The 24-year-old has been unable to shake off a problem in his right knee after coming off injured against Celtic on March 28 and is now looking to clear the situation up once and for all.
Although the season is going to end without any silverware in the cabinet, it has been Lovenkrands' most productive campaign as far as appearances and goals are concerned.
Lovenkrands has been involved in 34 games and scored 13 times this season, which is an impressive average for a winger.
But the former AB Copenhagen star is hoping the campaign doesn't end on a real sour note though and he can fully recover from this injury, particularly as he still has hopes of representing Denmark in Euro 2004.
McLeish said; Peter has had his knee immobilised. He's had some trouble with it over the past few weeks and the specialist, along with the doctor feel that it will hopefully be cured if he rests for about a month.”
Tonight sees Rangers travelling to Almondvale to play their league game with Livingston. Mcleish is without key players, Henning Berg, Craig Moore who is out for the season, and Bob Malcolm who is also out until next season. As well as that he is without Danish winger, Peter Lovenkrands who is expected to be out for at least a month after doctors advised that he rest his troubled knee.
On the plus side, Zurab Khizanishvilli has declared himself fit to start, Chris Burke and Ronald de Boer are both back to strengthen the midfield after missing Rangers' narrow win against Motherwell recently.
I expect that this will be the Rangers team tonight;
.............................. .Klos......................... ......
.............................. .............................. .......
......Hutton....Khizanishvilli ..F. de Boer....Ball........
.............................. .............................. .......
.....................Hughes... .............................. ....
.............................. .......Rae.................... ......
....Burke..................... ...................R.de Boer....
.............................. .............................. ........
....................Thompson.. ....Mols...................... .
Klos; Always first on the team sheet.
Hutton; Ricksen still suspended, Hutton playing well.
Khizanishvilli; Fit again, short of fit defenders at the moment.
F. de Boer; One of Rangers' most solid performers, his experience will help the young defence which without him has an average age of just 22.
Ball; Performances recently have been good, not really in competition for the position.
Hughes; Playing well recently.
Rae; Also playing well.
Burke; Back to fitness, causes the defenders problems from the start.
R. de Boer; Expected to take the place of Peter Lovenkrands.
Thompson; One of the few consistent performers this season.
Mols; Playing well recently.
I would expect that Rangers should win this game; 3-0 with Rae, R.de Boer and Mols the scorers.
ANDY WATSON will sign a new contract with Rangers within a matter of weeks and Jan Wouters is set to follow as Alex McLeish makes sure his management team is secure for the new campaign.
McLeish, of course, signed a new, long-term deal with Rangers at the start of last season and he wants to move forward with his trusted lieutenants.
McLeish fully acknowledges his two coaches have played a pivotal role in bringing success to Ibrox and is hopeful both Wouters and Watson will be alongside him in the dug-out for the foreseeable future.
Although Rangers have been unable to match the treble-winning achievements of the previous season, McLeish is confident he and his assistants will be able to turn things around again next year.
The Gers boss said: “I’d like the management team to stay intact. I don’t think we become poor coaches overnight. Despite the lack of silverware this season we have had a tremendous 18 months where we collected five trophies.
“So I can’t see why we can’t be successful again because we know each other well and we know what makes the others tick.
“For me it’s a good combination and it’s one that can take Rangers forward.”
Watson and McLeish will celebrate 10 years in management together this summer. They joined Motherwell in August 1994 and then moved to Hibs in February 1998 before landing at Ibrox on December 11, 2001.
A special bond of trust has been forged between the pair during that eventful decade in Scottish football and one that McLeish admits he heavily relies on as he tries to steer Rangers back into successful waters once more.
He added: “Two of the main things you look for in your backroom stuff are trust and loyalty and I’ve had that from Andy over that period of time.
“It’s so important in football where there is a lot of bickering in the background, little power struggles and people undermining others.
“When you work with the people you trust you don’t have to watch your back or rely on wing mirrors too much.”
Wouters has already turned down overtures from Dick Advocaat to join the coaching staff with the Dutch football association. Advocaat wanted him to look after the under-19 side and go with him to Euro 2004 but Wouters has indicated he is happy with his role at Rangers.
McLeish said: "In the short time I have worked with Jan I have quickly learned his merits as a coach and as a person. Trust and loyalty are also very much part of his make-up."
Watson is also thrilled to continue the partnership with McLeish and to carry one working with Wouters.
Watson said: “Alex has already spoke with me and the Board about a new contract and I believe everything will be sorted out. I’m absolutely delighted about that.
“I think Alex, Jan and I get on really well in terms of being a coaching team because we all have the same thoughts on the game and we like the same type of players.”
Jonny Wilkinson
15-04-2004, 00:08
I'll go for 2-1 tonight. Livingston don't look too bad a team at the moment. We drew there earlier in the season.
LIVINGSTON 1.......2 RANGERS
McMenamin................R De Boer and Thompson
I don't think Mols will score tonight,he seldom scores away from home.
Final Score
Livvy 1-1 Rangers
Unfortunately , there is no report because the radio decided to cover the celtic game on 3 yes 3 different stations as well as TV but not one mention of the Rangers game.
The scorers; Michael Mols opened the scoring after 25'.
McMenamin inevitably equalised for Livingston in the 79'.
Another poor result, Rangers really should have won the game given that they were almost full strengthed.
Gizmondo
15-04-2004, 06:20
Least Celtic lost :).
But still :(.
LIVINGSTON skipper Marvin Andrews has signed a pre contract agreement with Rangers.
The giant Tobago centre-half pledged himself to Alex McLeish in a secret meeting two weeks ago.
Andrews, who helped Livi hold Rangers to a 1-1 draw at Almondvale last night, will sign a two-year deal next month.
Gers' interest in the powerful Trinidad and Tobago star was revealed last July and he has been tracked throughout the season.
McLeish is convinced the 28-year-old's ability in the air and aggression on the deck is just what he needs to combat Celtic's strength as he makes plans to claim Rangers' 51st league title next season.
Andrews originally had a year left on his current Livi deal, but when the cash-strapped club went into administration that agreement was wiped out.
Andrews was granted a close season free transfer in return for his wages being cut.
Jonny Wilkinson
15-04-2004, 21:03
That'll be a great signing , he has been Livi's most solid player for numerous seasons. Brilliant.
Lisbon67Seville03
17-04-2004, 00:17
I'll go for 2-1 tonight. Livingston don't look too bad a team at the moment. We drew there earlier in the season.
LIVINGSTON 1.......2 RANGERS
McMenamin................R De Boer and Thompson
I don't think Mols will score tonight,he seldom scores away from home.
eating your words jonny boy? just taking the piss. unlucky on the night. maybe should've been a penalty, altho for arguments sake ill stick with maybe.
eating your words jonny boy? just taking the piss. unlucky on the night. maybe should've been a penalty, altho for arguments sake ill stick with maybe.
What do you mean maybe? It was a clear penalty. :eek:
Lisbon67Seville03
17-04-2004, 02:34
What do you mean maybe? It was a clear penalty. :eek:
yeah, but my inner Celtic ultra tells me to say it might've been one. so i'll stick with that. what did u think of jackie macnamara's claim? to be honest i thought it would've been a soft penalty, but ive seen them been given. if the defender had been half a second later in his challenge, it would've been stonewall.
Going by European referees standards I thought it would have been a penalty.
So what is the truth, if any, behind all this jibber jabber that Celt and Rangers will be joining the Premiership soon?
It won't be happening, at least not in the short term. It would not be as simple as "Rangers and Celtic will join the premiership next year." If we were to join the English leagues then we would probably have to start at nationwide level.
I was thinking that if all of this does go down, they would have to earn promotion at least.
What's your opinion, good or bad for the Premiership and SPL?
for the spl, It would be good, Rangers and Celtic are miles ahead of everyone else, but the other 10 are pretty close, it would make the league a more open competition, however there would be less money because TV channels would not want to cover as many matches.
for the premiership, Rangers and Celtic would join the group chasing fourth place, which is good for the league in general, both teams have a huge fanbase, which would get money for the economy in both Scotland and England. It would also allow Rangers and Scotland to clear their debts.
MIKEL ARTETA has recovered from a shoulder injury and Alex McLeish has confirmed the little Spanish pussy boy will play at some stage against Partick Thistle tomorrow.
The young midfielder has thankfully not featured since tearing a muscle (what a shame. :rolleyes: ) at Celtic Park in March but he has completed a strict rehabilitation programme at Murray Park and is ready to resume his Light Blue career.
The manager said; "Mikel is available to us again and it’s likely he will play a part in the game if not from the start. He is definitely part of the squad."
Fernando Ricksen is free from suspension and the Dutchman is also expected to feature in the alternative Glasgow derby.
McLeish was far from happy with Wednesday’s 1-1 draw at Livingston and he is demanding improvement on the hallowed turf tomorrow.
He said: "The fans were great again at Almondvale and they always turn out in great numbers. I will not to let the season peter out and we owe the supporters a result this weekend.
"The players have to stay motivated and I won’t accept poor performances, like the second-half on Wednesday."
Alex Mcleish has revealed that he will give young keeper Alan Mcgregor a shot in goal against Partick on Saturday. Stefan Klos, who has been in sensational form this season will be relegated to the bench to give the youngster a chance to show his ability.
Saturday April 24 - Dundee United v Rangers (Tannadice) 3pm
Saturday May 1 - Rangers v Motherwell (Ibrox) 3pm
Saturday May 8 - Celtic v Rangers (Celtic Park) kick off tba
Wednesday May 12 - Rangers v Hearts (Ibrox) 7.45pm
Sunday May 16- Dunfermline v Rangers (East End Park) 3pm.
The split will begin after todays home match against Partick Thistle.
.........................Mcgre gor.........................
.............................. .............................. ..
...Ricksen.....F. de Boer..Khizanishvilli....Ball.. ..
.............................. .............................. ..
..Burke............Rae.......A rteta.....R. de Boer..
.............................. .............................. ..
...................Mols....... .......Thompson..........
Mcgregor will be given a game, Mcleish has announced.
Ricksen is back from suspension, and will probably be given a game ahead of youngster Hutton.
F. de Boer will clearly be a fixture throughout the season with Moore out until next season.
Khizanishvilli is back to fitness and with Berg also out he will be expected to start.
Ball is playing well on our left wing back position.
Burke must start, the little winger gives his all every week.
Rae is playing well.
Arteta is unfortunately likely to start with Mcleish giving him his backing. Although I would rather see him rotting away on the reserves.
R. de Boer will probably take up the left flank again as Lovenkrands is still out of action.
Mols is playing well and back to scoring form
Thompson has recovered well from the head knock which forced him off the pitch on Wednesday.
Transfer Update
GOALKEEPERS
Julian Speroni (Dundee)
DEFENDERS
Marvin Andrews (Livingston) - confirmed for next season
David Mcnamee (Livingston)
Danny Mills (Leeds)
MIDFIELDERS
Boutaharr (RKC Waalwijk)
STRIKERS
James McFadden (Everton)
James Beattie (Southhampton)
Zheng Zhi (Shenzhen Jianlibao)
Dado Prso (Monaco)
Nacho Novo (Dundee)
Andy Watson will be in charge of the light blues today as Alex Mcleish is scouting a player from the continent. No names have been mentioned.
Rangers failed to entertain the home crowd of 49,289 today, but still won comfortably. Partick Thistle played like a team with nothing to play for.
Mikel Arteta made lots of space for himself on the right wing, he managed to put a great ball in, which found Hutton at the back post, Hutton headered it across goal and Steven Thompson was there to header it in.
Gavin Rae sealed the game on 49' with a low right footed drive which went in off the post.
An hour into the game youngster Stephen Hughes and veteran R. de Boer replaced Mikel Arteta and goalscorer Steven Thompson.
Youngster Andy Walker was given another taste of action for the Gers as he came on for Gavin Rae in the last 15'.
Allan Mcgregor - 3/10 ; had nothing to do.
Alan Hutton - 6/10
F. de Boer - 5/10
Michael Ball - 4/10
Zurab Khizanishvilli - 5/10
Chris Burke - 7/10
Fernando Ricksen - 5/10
Mikel Arteta - 6/10
Gavin Rae - 6/10
Michael Mols - 5/10
Steven Thompson 6/10
subs
Stephen Hughes - 5/10
R. de Boer - 6/10
Andy Walker - 5/10
man of the match;
Mikel Arteta
Gizmondo
18-04-2004, 02:31
Steven Thompson is becoming rather a good player.
And he's Scottish!
Lisbon67Seville03
18-04-2004, 14:06
So what is the truth, if any, behind all this jibber jabber that Celt and Rangers will be joining the Premiership soon?
You used my phrase man. Well, Mr T's phrase. Im gonna have to copywrite it soon.
It will not happen, despite the fact that both teams want it and no Premiership team has been against it. Its a matter of discrimination. Both Celtic and Rangers deserve to be playing in one of Europe's top leagues, and if they were they would rise up the rankings in European Club Football. But if the two top Scottish teams joined, why should the top Welsh team or top Northern Irish team not be included as they are also British and also need to "spread their wings". If they did, they would have to join Nationwide. Would that mean that the division would be increased by two or would two third division teams miss out on promotion?
Copywrite 2004 Jibba Jabba/Jibber Jabber
F de Boer, who joined Rangers during the winter transfer window, has hinted that he may stay at Rangers beyond Euro 2004.
The Dutchman, who played in both legs of the European championship qualifiers against Scotland, has been a solid player in defence since joining and has grabbed 2 goals.
Controversy has followed Frank since his arrival, with many Rangers fans and dickheads like Mark Hateley criticising his age. And there was also the outburst by injured defender Henning Berg, who claimed that Alex Mcleish was only helping the Dutch national team and not the Light Blues. All these critics have been silenced though, with a string of great performances.
Frank de Boer has stated that he is very happy at Ibrox and admits that while his brother Ronald will not be here next season, there is a possibility he will be. The Dutchman has said,
"I'm very happy here so we will wait and see what happens."
"I had planned to wait until after Portugal before making my decision but now there might be some talks before then. I'm not in a rush."
With Jean-Alain Boumsong and Marvin Andrews already joining in the summer, there may no longer be a place for injured captain Craig Moore, who's current contract expires in the summer of 2005.
Jonny Wilkinson
18-04-2004, 18:41
Moore previously said he donates his future to Rangers.
Craig Moore has also stated within the last few weeks that he will not sign a new contract until he knows that Mcleish is bringing in good players.
Travis Bickle
19-04-2004, 01:27
Well done Celtic ! :D
Lisbon67Seville03
19-04-2004, 07:07
Well done Celtic ! :D
wahay! what an atmosphere. Look forward to a good chase next season.
RANGERS are facing up to some very good news in an otherwise tough season that they will almost certainly be seeded in the crucial third qualifying round of the Champions League.
The Light Blues made sure of second place in the SPL last weekend with the 2-0 win over Partick Thistle.
And it has been revealed that, barring some freakish results across Europe, Rangers will be among the 16 seeds in the final qualifying phase for Europe’s elite tournament.
Assistant boss Andy Watson said: “It is good news but it certainly doesn’t guarantee anything. We only have to look back to Viktoria Zizkov two seasons ago to learn what can happen if you are missing some players and don’t perform.”
There is little doubt that the qualifying tie on August 11 and 25 will be absolutely massive – just as it was this season when Rangers knocked out FC Copenhagen to reach the highly lucrative group stage.
The way things are panning out in the various European leagues at the moment, Rangers are likely to be seeded around the 11th 12th or 13th mark, which would be a colossal boost.
It would mean that the Ibrox side would avoid teams from the strongest leagues in Europe ie – England, Italy, Spain, Germany, Holland and France.
That means they will miss the likes of Manchester United or Chelsea, Newcastle or Liverpool, Juventus, Roma, Barcelona, Deportivo La Coruna, Paris Saint-Germain, Stuttgart, PSV Eindhoven and Panathinaikos.
However, it certainly doesn’t follow that Rangers can assume they will qualify as there are still some tough sides lying in wait.
The likes of Fenerbahce – who knocked Rangers out three years ago – Sporting Lisbon, Rosenborg, CSKA Moscow, Basel, Dynamo Kiev and Trabzonspor are all liable to be in the hat.
ALEX RAE could be on his way back to Rangers 18 years after he was released by Graeme Souness after the Club confirmed toay that talks over a summer move have taken place.
Mcleish seems to have taken a u-turn, after sating earlier in the year that Alex Rae was too old.
The midfield dynamo has been outstanding for Wolves all season even although the Molineux club are in relegation trouble and he is determined to do everything he can to try to save them from the drop from the Premiership.
Rae, who is 34 and a lifelong Rangers fan, is out of contract at the end of the season and would be available on a free transfer
Alex McLeish has been looking to add some steel and determination to his midfield and Rae fits the bill. He has vast experience rom playing most of his career in England with Millwall, Sunderland and now Wolves.
Director of Football Business Martin Bain said: "Rangers can confirm that the Club has held initial discussions with Alex Rae. The player does not wish to be disrespectful to Wolves at this stage of the season. However, he has committed to further talks at the end of the season."
Rae was on the groundstaff at Ibrox in 1986 when Graeme Souness took over but was let go at that time and ended up signing for Falkirk in January, 1987.
He is clearly excited at the prospect of playing for the club he has always followed but he insists that he is totally committed to helping Wolves.
He told our stablemates www.wolves.co.uk : "I want to speak to Rangers again but not until this season's business is complete.
"I want to keep my head down and concentrate on playing for Wolves. We still have a chance of surviving the drop and I am totally focussed on that.
"The Wolves fans have been great to me during my time here and I want them to know that I am not going to be distracted by any talk of signing for Rangers.
"I'll make a decision on my future in the summer, but in the meantime I'm totally committed to Wolves."
Transfer Update
GOALKEEPERS
Julian Speroni (Dundee)
DEFENDERS
Marvin Andrews (Livingston) - confirmed for next season
David Mcnamee (Livingston)
Danny Mills (Leeds)
MIDFIELDERS
Boutaharr (RKC Waalwijk)
Alex Rae (Wolves) - in talks for a bosman transfer this summer.
STRIKERS
James McFadden (Everton)
James Beattie (Southhampton)
Zheng Zhi (Shenzhen Jianlibao)
Dado Prso (Monaco)
Nacho Novo (Dundee)
I recall speaking to lisbonseville about Dado Prso and whether or not Rangers should look towards signing him this season.
He has scored another goal in the Champions' League semi-final against Chelsea last night, and for lisbon's reference, it was not a simple tap in. I think if a player can prove that he can score goals at the top level of European football then the player should be considered as a player with very good ability. He is also a regular in the Croatia team.
However I feel that a player who has scored so many goals this season will not be sold cheaply by Monaco, and I fear that Rangers will not be able to find a suitable fee for him within their limited budget.
Condolensces from a Rangers fan on the sad loss of "Lisbon Lions" and Scotland goalkeeper Ronnie Simpson who died yesterday.
SHOTA ARVELADZE will give Rangers a much-needed boost when he signs a new long-term deal next week.
The Georgian international, whose current contract is due to expire next summer, will put and end to speculation over his future by putting pen to paper on a two or three-year extension.
Express Sport understands the 31 year-old has told Alex McLeish he wants to stay and that has disappointed his former clubs Ajax and Fenerbachce who were both keen to re-sign him.
Arveladze’s agent, Ivan Benes, said last night: “Everything has been pretty much agreed and we expect Shota’s new deal to be finalised next week.
“There is interest from a lot of clubs, including teams in England, but I have discussed things with Shota and he sees no reasons why he should leave Scotland.
“Shota has made it clear to Rangers and isn’t interested in going anywhere else. He will be staying at Rangers.”
Scott Burns – Daily Express
ALLAN McGREGOR will retain his place in goal for tomorrow’s SPL match with Dundee United but Mikel Arteta and Ronald de Boer have both been ruled out.
McGregor made his first league start of the season in last week’s 2-0 home victory over Partick Thistle but was rarely tested by the Jags’ strikeforce in a low-key encounter.
The 22 year-old stopper can expect a tougher test at Tannadice tomorrow from a United side who haven’t lost at home for more than five months.
Arteta, however, will play no part in the game after picking up a knee injury while a thigh strain keeps de Boer on the sidelines.
Several of Gers’ youth players – including Lee Robinson(pictured), Ross McCormack and Bajram Fetai – are again included in the squad.
With Alex McLeish not yet back from a scouting trip, his assistant Andy Watson was at Murray Park this afternoon to reveal the squad news.
Watson said: “Alex was at one of the UEFA Cup semi-finals yesterday so hasn’t made it back in time today.
“He’s been away most of the week at various places and in terms of covering games and running his own eye over players he’s been quite busy.
“Because of the current situation in the league – which we don’t want – it’s given Alex the chance to look at players and Jan and I have been away too.
“The squad news for tomorrow is that Mikel Arteta has picked up a knee knock and won’t be available while Ronald picked up a thigh strain and will also be missing.
“It’s always difficult for us when we go away from home and they beat us 2-0 the last time we were up there.
“So we’ve got to go and be ready for them as Ian McCall always has his players fired up – especially against the Old Firm.
“In the squad tomorrow, over and above the usual kids – Chris Burke and Hamed Namouchi – Ross McCormack, Bajram Fetai and Lee Robinson are added to the squad while Allan McGregor will start in goal again.”
For the away game against Dundee United tomorrow;
.....................Mcgregor. ...................
....Hutton....F. de Boer..Zurab....Ball....
.............................. .......................
....Burkey............Rae..... .Hughes........
.............................. .......................
..............Mols............ ..Fetai............
....................Thompson.. .................
Mcgregor; see post above ^.
Hutton; the only commited right back at Rangers.
F. de Boer; a rock at the back, certain start amongst a depleted backline.
Zurab; Look comfortable playing next to Frank last week, should take the spot this week.
Ball; Our best left back.
Burkey; A must start for the Gers.
Rae; Scored 2/10 games for the Gers, playing well as a box to box'er.
Hughes; Looks likely to start in a depleted midfield.
Mols; Playing well in the last few games.
Fetai; Give him a go, we're short of strikers too.
Thompson; The targetman.
Jonny Wilkinson
23-04-2004, 22:55
My team for tomorrow: *confirmed
..........................McGr egor*......................... ..............
.................F De Boer.......................... ..........................
Hutton........................ .............................. ..Ball..........
...........Ross..........Khizn ashvilli...........Rae........ ..Hughes...
Burke......................... .............................. ..................
.......................Mols... .............................. .........................
.............................T hompson....................... ...............
Flipper the Priest
23-04-2004, 23:26
Tell you what, Alex Rae could be a top signing for you currant buns.
Frank de Boer should follow his bro, too.
All this "experience" talk is bullshit.
Do you really think that Frank de Boer would help bringing through the youngsters?
I doubt it very much. Alex Rae, on the other hand would most definitely, because he's not just coming for a final big payday.
He's a goalscoring midfielder still cutting it in the big time who supports the club and is of captain material. For free!
McLeish has signed some real boggers, but A. Rae will be great next season.
Sadly. :D
Alex Rae will be a good player as a Barry Ferguson replacement until Gavin Rae becomes better. Alex Rae will only be playing for another what 3 years.
Frank de Boer and Jean-Alain Boumsong sounds like a brilliant defensive partnership, he may be a bit old now, but he's still sharp, quick and able to compete, and he wants to win as well.
Flipper the Priest
24-04-2004, 01:05
I'd seriously rather have Andrew over de Boer.
De Boer's just in it for the money. At least Andrews is a fighter and will improve alongside Boumsong.
I'd have de Boer in midfield if anywhere.
Lisbon67Seville03
24-04-2004, 16:18
I recall speaking to lisbonseville about Dado Prso and whether or not Rangers should look towards signing him this season.
He has scored another goal in the Champions' League semi-final against Chelsea last night, and for lisbon's reference, it was not a simple tap in. I think if a player can prove that he can score goals at the top level of European football then the player should be considered as a player with very good ability. He is also a regular in the Croatia team.
However I feel that a player who has scored so many goals this season will not be sold cheaply by Monaco, and I fear that Rangers will not be able to find a suitable fee for him within their limited budget.
his goal wasnt bad. im not saying he isnt good, im saying he's over-rated. he is definitely better than Ranger's current strikers. if he can score in le championnat, then he can score a lot in the SPL. also, morientes' goal was shit-hot. unbelievable finish.
Lisbon67Seville03
24-04-2004, 16:20
Condolensces from a Rangers fan on the sad loss of "Lisbon Lions" and Scotland goalkeeper Ronnie Simpson who died yesterday.
a cyber-shake-of-the-hands for worldrecord. a sorely missed man who played in the pinnacle of celtic and scottish domination (if you can call it scottish domination). RIP.
Wow! What a great game, I want to criticise Rangers here, but I can't, both teams were superb.
But, here is my criticism, Rangers failed to take their chances, and they should have wrapped the game up by the end of the first half.
The Arabs took the lead in just 60 seconds thanks to Billy Dodds.
But the lead did not last long as 5 minutes later, great teamwork by Hutton and Burke lead to Steven Thompson grabbing an equaliser.
Then, in the 14th minute, Stephen Hughes won a penalty for the Gers', which Steven Thompson converted to score his second of the game.
20 minutes in, Michael Mols injured his thigh, and may not ever play for Rangers again, with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
On the 26' minute, Namouchi was finally allowed to replace Mols.
The substitute, Namouchi, increased the lead after Chris Burke managed to create a chance from nothing before laying it off to Namouchi who's first shot was rebounded right back to him by the keeper for a tap in. 3-1.
Gavin Rae picked up an injury which may well leave him on the sidelines until next season, when challenging for the ball on the 53rd minute. Paolo Vanoli replaced him on the left wing.
58 minutes in, United started the ressurection after a fine long ball from midfield which fell to Scotland who scored one-on-one with Mcgregor.
75 minutes in, Maurice Ross replaced Michael Ball, who took a head knock.
In stoppage time, super sub Jason Scotland scored an equaliser after a rare mistake from F. de Boer.
Mcgregor - 5/10
Ball - 6/10
Zurab - 6/10
F. de Boer - 5/10
Hutton - 6/10
Rae - 5/10
Hughes - 6/10
Ricksen - 5/10
Burkey - 7/10
Mols - 5/10
Thompson - 7/10
subs;
Namouchi - 6/10
Vanoli - 4/10
Ross - 4/10
Man of the match has to go to Steven Thompson, who scored 2 goals today and showed perhaps the makings of an international class striker.
Bob Malcolm - 4-5 weeks
Mikel Arteta - 1-2 weeks
Ronald de Boer - 1-2 weeks
Peter Lovenkrands - 3 weeks
Craig Moore - next season
Shota Arveladze - next season
Gavin Rae - next season
Michael Mols - next season
Lisbon67Seville03
25-04-2004, 00:39
Bob Malcolm - 4-5 weeks
Mikel Arteta - 1-2 weeks
Ronald de Boer - 1-2 weeks
Peter Lovenkrands - 3 weeks
Craig Moore - next season
Shota Arveladze - next season
Gavin Rae - next season
Michael Mols - next season
gutting to see so many injuries in the modern game. talking to my grandfather in reference to football 30-40 years ago. its strange that you never heard of as many injuries. the only major one i can think of would be the career-ending cruciate ligament damage to Brian Clough, similar to big John kennedy's injury. i think club doctors are a lot more picky these days when it comes to player safety. in those days a broken finger would've been shrugged off like a cut on the cheek. not today tho. interesting to see how modernised the game has become. is it good? totally depends on the way you look at it.
Rangers and Scotland central midfielder Gavin Rae received a major injury which will keep him on the sidelines until mid July. The midfielder, who picked up his injury at Tannadice on Saturday, met two knee specialists today, one in Glasgow and one in London, both revealed that the Gers' star, who has a troubled season with bad injuries, has stretched his cruciate ligaments.
Rangers' pre season opponents and camps.
Training Camp in Austria - July 16th to July 23rd
Fulham away from home - July 24th
Spurs at Ibrox - July 28th
Pre season tounament - Newcastle - Feyenoord - Sporting Lisbon at
St James' Park - July 31st
That pre-season tournament should be interesting, especially Ruud gullit returning to st James' Park after what he said about Shearer
Lisbon67Seville03
27-04-2004, 22:19
That pre-season tournament should be interesting, especially Ruud gullit returning to st James' Park after what he said about Shearer
methinks there will be a little bit of a raised performance from alan for obvious reasons.
I've missed something, can someone explain.
I hope so, Gullit deserves all the shit he will get from the fans
ALAN HUTTON was carried off on a stretcher yesterday as Scotland’s under-21 side fought their way to a 2-2 friendly draw with Denmark.
The Rangers full-back was withdrawn midway through the second half but coach Rainer Bonhof is confident Hutton will be fit for Rangers’ game with Motherwell this weekend.
Immediately after the game, Bonhof said: “Hutton took a knock and it’s bleeding a bit as well on his shin under his knee, but it’s fine. With ice tonight he should be fine tomorrow.”
Hutton was one of two Gers to start the match in Helsingor, with Andy Dowie – currently on loan at Brechin City – captaining the young Scots.
Goalkeeper Graeme Smith – on loan at Ross County this season – replaced Celtic counterpart David Marshall at half-time while Chris Burke was a replacement for the stricken Hutton.
Rangers travel to Fir Park to play Motherwell. Rangers have an ever growing injuries list, but are boosted by the fact that Mikel Arteta has returned to full fitness.
.......................Klos... .....................
...Hutton....F. de Boer.Zurab....Ball.....
.............................. ......................
...........Hughes......Arteta. ................
..Burke....................... .....Namouchi..
.............................. ......................
.............Thompson...Fetai. ...............
Klos; Mcleish has stated that Klos will take McGregor's place in goal, with next week's Old Firm game in mind.
Hutton; Playing well, and linking successfully with Burkey.
F. de Boer; A real asset in both attack and defence, he can keep a defence tight, or break up the opponents with an inch perfect pass.
Zurab; A great young defender who can also help in attack.
Ball; Playing well and starting to put up a quality long ball.
Hughes; With Rae out of contention, it looks like Hughes will take the holding role in midfield.
Arteta; Will be expected to help the strikers, I'm a bit worried that he'll fail to last 90 minutes though, and as a result, our midfield might get over-run.
Burkey; A true Gers player, right now, he is our best outfield player, he was putting in brilliant crosses against Dundee United on Saturday.
Namouchi; With a lack of left sided midfielders available for selection, it looks like this naturally right sided Frenchman will play on the left wing.
Fetai; An extreme lack of fit strikers may force us to play this youngster.
Thompson; On top goalscoring form as of late, sure to play with the hope of grabbing a few goals.
Bob Malcolm - 4-5 weeks
Ronald de Boer - 1-2 weeks
Craig Moore - next season
Shota Arveladze - next season
Gavin Rae - next season
Michael Mols - next season
Hamed Namouchi - 4 weeks-?
Christian Nerlinger has been payed-off by Rangers FC. The German midfielder who has been plaguered by injury since his arrival in summer 2001, had origionally hoped to stay at Rangers and try to get back into the team.
But it seems now that Nerlinger, who has 1 year left on his current contract, has agreed to leave the club at the end of the season.
Transfer Update
GOALKEEPERS
Julian Speroni (Dundee) - paper talk
DEFENDERS
Marvin Andrews (Livingston) - signed
David Mcnamee (Livingston) - paper talk
Danny Mills (Leeds) - paper talk
David Unsworth (Everton) - known interest
MIDFIELDERS
Boutaharr (RKC Waalwijk) - known interest
Alex Rae (Wolves) - signed
STRIKERS
Oliver Neuville (Bayer Leverkusen) - known interest
James McFadden (Everton) - known interest
James Beattie (Southhampton) - known interest
Zheng Zhi (Shenzhen Jianlibao) - TBC
Dado Prso (Monaco) - known interest
Nacho Novo (Dundee) - known interest
Emile Mpenza (Standard Liege) - scouted by Mcleish
Obafemi Martins (Inter Milan) - known interest for a loan deal
Marcus Bent (Ipswich) - paper talk
Emmanuel Corradi (Lazio) - paper talk
Standard Liege's Belgian international striker Emile Mpenza says he would be interested in discussing a move to Rangers at the end of the season.
Mpenza, who has been linked with Rangers in the past, scored in a recent 1-1 draw with Anderlecht, a game watched by Rangers boss Alex McLeish.
McLeish said he was looking at a number of players playing in the match.
"It gives me great pleasure that a club as big as Rangers is thinking about me," Mpenza told the News of the World.
"I don't want to be too preoccupied thinking about them for the time being - I want to concentrate on my duties on the pitch.
"But once the season is over, we can sit down and have talks.
"It is not 100% certain that I will remain with Standard but they were the only club to give me a chance eight months ago, when nobody else wanted me.
"They took a risk, and now I want to repay them by helping them get into the Champions League."
The 25-year-old has scored 18 goals this season after returning to Belgium from German side Schalke 04.
Standard currently lie third in the Belgian First Division behind Club Bruges and champions Anderlecht.
.............................. .....Klos..................... ......................
.....Hutton.......Boumsong.... ..Andrews/Moore......Ball............
.........................Alex Rae......Gavin Rae........................... .
.......Burkey................. .............................. Lovenkrands....
.............................M cFadden....................... ..................
.............................. ...............Mpenza......... ...................
What does everyone else think?
3 guys; Boumsong, Andrews and Alex Rae, who will be willing to fight for every ball.
Some flair players; Burke, McFadden, Mpenza.
And the solid players; Hutton, Ball, Gavin Rae, Lovenkrands.
And of course, the ever reliable Stefan Klos.
Injury Update
Bob Malcolm - 2 weeks
Craig Moore - next season
Shota Arveladze - next season
Gavin Rae - next season
Hamed Namouchi - 3 weeks
Michael Mols and Ronald de Boer have both miraculously, shaken off their injuries and have declared themselves fit for this Saturday's Old Firm clash.
It looked like Michael Mols had kicked his last ball ever for Rangers when he outstretched his leg playing against Partick Thistle two weeks ago But he has said to "Rangers World", "I hope to play in this weeks game. I hope that Rangers can beat Celtic, and give the fans a good ending to the season."
Peter Lovenkrands has also made a great recovery after being given a rest in the last few weeks on doctors advice, but will not play again this season, to ensure that he is ready for next season.
Bob Malcolm, who had looked like he was finally breaking into the team before an injury kept him out for 6 weeks, has resumed running in training but will not play this season.
Hamed Namouchi, who pulled a cruciate ligament aginst Dundee United, has undergone scans which have revealed that his injury is not as bad as first thought, but will not play this season.
Sorry for the wait on this match report, I have been very busy over the last few days.
A depleted Rangers squad played against Terry Butcher's youngsters at Ibrox on Saturday. Rangers were looking for a morale-boosting win before their next match against rivals Celtic.
.............................. .........Klos................. ....................
..Ricksen...(McKenzie_3)...F. de Boer...Zurab......(Hutton_1).
.............................. .............................. .......(Ross_1)...
.......Burke........Hughes.... .............(Arteta_2)....... ...Vanoli.
.............................. .(Namouchi_3)................. ................
.............................. .............................. .....................
.............................. .....Thompson......(Mckormack_ 2)......
A boring first half which was eventually livened up by a free kick which hit the back of the net from Mikel Arteta right at the end of the half.
Alan Hutton was brought off at half time, to be replaced with fellow youngster Maurice Ross. He made an immediate impact, when just 2 minutes into the second half, he scored his first ever goal at Ibrox to make it 2-0.
Then just 2 minutes later, youngster Hamed Namouchi made it 3-0 after a wonderful one two with F. de Boer. Unfortunately he picked up an injury scoring the goal when he got involved in a clash with the keeper.
At this point, opening scorer Mikel Arteta was replaced by young striker Ross Mckormack, who made his top team debut.
Within 2 minutes of Mckormack coming on,Paolo Vanoli, who has so far been unimpressive for Rangers this season, put in a great cross from the left, which targetman Steven Thompson was able to head in to make a 4-0 lead.
4 goals in 8 minutes, and Mcleish decided that it was time to blood some youngsters. Young centre back, Steven Mckenzie, replaced struggling midfielder Hamed Namouchi and slotted into centre back amongst the vstly experienced Frank de Boer and Zurab Khizanishvilli.
Young striker Mckormack was unlucky not to score on a few occassions throughout the game.
Klos - 5/10
Hutton - 5/10
Zurab - 5/10
Frank de Boer - 6/10
Ricksen - 5/10
Vanoli - 6/10
Arteta - 6/10
Hughes - 5/10
Burke - 6/10
Namouchi - 6/10
Thompson - 6/10
subs;
Ross - 6/10
Mckormack - 6/10
Mckenzie - 6/10
Rangers play Celtic on Saturday, Rangers fans are all looking for a win to bring a glimmer of joy to their season.
Mcleish has said that he will use a mix of youth and experience to try and get Rangers their first spl win against Celtic since 2002.
.............................. .....Klos..................... .......
......Hutton........F. de Boer..Zurab.........Ball...... ..
.............................. .............................. ........
........................Hughes ....Arteta.................... ..
........Burkey................ ..................Ross........ ...
.............................. .............................. ........
......................R. de Boer.......................... ......
.............................. ....Thompson.................. ..
klos; Why wouldn't he start?????
Ball; Rested last Saturday, presumably to prepare him for this week.
F. de Boer; A superb defender who will be very helpful in breaking down the Celtic defence with his accurate passing game.
Zurab; Playing well alongside de Boer.
Hutton; Deserves to make his Old Firm debut, plays brilliantly with Burke in front of him.
Hughes; Will take up the holding role in midfield.
Arteta; Will be expected to try and carve open the Celtic midfield with his skill.
Ross; Attacked well on Saturday. We're not exactly spoilt for choice on the left right now anyway.
Burke; Must start for Rangers, the one guy who can take on the Celtic wingers and set up the strikers.
R. de Boer; Looking to score on his last ever Old Firm derby, will be looking to use his dribbling and pace to beat the Celtic backline.
Thompson; The targetman for Rangers, looking to add to his score tally for this season.
ChelseaDave
06-05-2004, 22:34
what about lovenkrands? is he injured?
He hasn't played since Partick Thistle game because of a knee problem. He is fit to play but Mcleish doesn't want to risk him.
Croatia and Monaco hitman Dado Prso; who is out of contract at the end of the season, will meet up with Alex Mcleish today with talks of a bosman switch in mind.
Dado Prso, who is out of contract at Champions League finalists AS Monaco at the end of the season, flew in to Glasgow with his wife last night.
Prso, has met previously with Rangers chairman David Murray in France last weekend, was said to be happy with what he was being offered.
Alex Mcleish has admitted that he is confident on adding Dad Prso to the list of summer signings this week which includes French powerhouse Jean-Alain Boumsong and Wolves' hardman Alex Rae.
Rangers travelled to Parkshed today looking to end a terrible run of form in Old Firm matches.
.............................. ........Klos.................. ................
.......Hutton.........F. de Boer....Zurab...........Vanoli ........
.............................. .............................. .................
..........Ricksen............. .Arteta.............(1.Hughes) .......
.............................. .........................(1.Ba ll 86).........
.............................. .............................. .................
..........Burke............... ...Mols.........Thompson...... ........
A dodgy formation I felt, I think that Ricksen should have played centre and Burke in right midfield for a 4-4-2. But, in the first half, a 4-3-3 was actually working well for us.
Celtic started brightly and put the ball in the back of the net from a freekick, but referee Hugh Dallas disallowed the goal because of an off the ball push by Henrik Larsson.
Rangers were able to assert a little bit of pressure later on in the first half, with Stephen Hughes, Michael Mols, Frank de Boer and Stephen Thompson all unlucky not to score.
Celtic dominated the second half, but great defence by Zurab and Frank de Boer coupled with some outstanding saves by captain Stefan Klos kept us in the game.
In stoppage time, Stephen Thompson was inches away from getting a good connection in the air with a Michael Ball cross, which would have sailed over Celtic keeper David Marshall who was stuck in no man's land. Ironically, from the resulting goal kick, came Celtic's winning goal. Chris Sutton picked up the ball and overpowered Frank de Boer before floating in a beautiful shot from 25 yards.
Klos - 7/10
Deserved his captain's armband today.Many great saves, had no chance with the winning goal.
Vanoli - 6/10
Showed the ability which he has lacked all season.
Frank de Boer - 7/10
Worked hard in defence, was all over Larsson for most of the game.
Zurab - 7/10
Great performance from the youngster. Worked well in tandem with Frank de Boer.
Hutton - 6/10
Didn't really give his all in attack, not too much to do in defence, but did everthing well with composure.
Ricksen - 7/10
Gave his all today, was not afraid to get stuck in in midfield.
Arteta - 5/10
No real magic from him, but still a good performance.
Hughes - 8/10
Was all over the park today, unlucky not to score, one of Rangers' best players.
Burke - 6/10
Didn't look comfortable in the front line. None of the usual flair, but still looked promising the few times he had the ball.
Mols - 6/10
Played well, not his best performance but he still caused Celtic trouble.
Thompson - 6/10
Should have scored, but still a good performance getting himself around the park willingly.
subs;
Ball - 5/10
Not much time to do anything, but one great ball almost gave Thompson an injury time winner.
Overall we played well, marking Celtic excellently on set pieces and causing some trouble at the other end. Our best Old Firm performance this season by some margin.
Rangers FC have revealed Monaco striker Dado Prso, who has been talking to the Gers' throughout this weekend has signed a deal which will keep him at Ibrox for 3 years.
http://www.rangers.premiumtv.co.uk/javaImages/39/72/0,,5~356921,00.jpg
Prso is a great signing, do you think he will be as prolific as Larsson was at Celtic?
No way, Larsson is a goalscorer primarily, but he is also a big game player and a team player. Prso will have the same effect that Larsson had on Celtic; because we really lack a goalscorer but he will never be as prolific as Larsson. But still a great buy. So far Mcleish seems to have proven that he is good in the market after all.
Craig Moore has had an argument with Mcleish according to the daily record.
It is because of a report earlier this week in which Moore claims that he will not commit his future to Rangers until he knows what is happening to the team.
Unloyal bastard! I hope Mcleish gets rid of him. He won't be needed anymore with Boumsong and Marvin Andrews coming in and backup such as Zurab and youngster McKenzie. He's never been the best player in the team anyway and I don't think he is good enough for Rangers now.
keepers;
Stefan Klos
Alan McGregor
left backs;
Michael Ball
Paolo Vanoli???
right backs;
Maurice Ross
Alan Hutton
centre backs;
Jean-Alain Boumsong (Auxerre) (pre-signed)
Marvin Andrews (Livingston) (pre-signed)
Zurab
Ross Mckenzie (youth)
David McNamee (Livingston)?
______________________________ ______
left midfield;
Peter Lovenkrands
Paolo Vanoli
Hamed Namouchi
Alex Walker (youth)
Olivier Kapo (Auxerre)
right midfield;
Burkey
Fernando Ricksen????
centre midfield;
defensive
Alex Rae (Wolves) (pre-signed)
Gavin Rae
Stephen Hughes
Bob Malcolm
attacking
Namouchi
Olivier Kapo (Auxerre) ????
______________________________ _______________
strikers
Barjjam Fetai (youth)
Ross McKormack (youth)
Steven Mclean (on loan at Scun....thorpe)
Steven Thompson
Dado Prso (Monaco) (pre-signed)
Shota Arveladze
______________________________ ______________-
....................Klos...... ..............
..Hutton.Boumsong.Andrews.Ball ..
.Burkey.A.Rae..G.Rae.Lovenkran ds
.............Arveladze..Prso.. ..........
Transfer Update
GOALKEEPERS
Julian Speroni (Dundee) - paper talk
DEFENDERS
Jean-Alain Boumsong (AJ Auxerre) - signed
Marvin Andrews (Livingston) - signed
David Mcnamee (Livingston) - paper talk
Danny Mills (Leeds) - paper talk
David Unsworth (Everton) - known interest
MIDFIELDERS
Boutaharr (RKC Waalwijk) - known interest
Alex Rae (Wolves) - signed
STRIKERS
Oliver Neuville (Bayer Leverkusen) - known interest
James McFadden (Everton) - known interest
James Beattie (Southhampton) - known interest
Zheng Zhi (Shenzhen Jianlibao) - TBC
Dado Prso (Monaco) - known interest - signed
Nacho Novo (Dundee) - known interest
Emile Mpenza (Standard Liege) - scouted by Mcleish
Obafemi Martins (Inter Milan) - known interest for a loan deal
Marcus Bent (Ipswich) - paper talk
Emmanuel Corradi (Lazio) - paper talk
Flipper the Priest
10-05-2004, 01:48
I shall take this moment to point out that Prso is nothing without service.
Rangers and lack of service go together like Morecambe and Wise.
We don't lack quality players who can set him up. We have good players on the wing like Peter Lovenkrands and Chris Burke as well as having alan Hutton who occassionally gets forward to overlap Burke. Gavin Rae was also creating goals for us until his injury.
But, I do agree with you to a certain extent, with Mikel Arteta sure to leave in the summer, I think we should be looking to find a replacement, Olivier Kapo; who is out of contract at Auxerre would be my choice, and also a creative attacker who can behind Prso. Perhaps James McFadden.
Flipper the Priest
10-05-2004, 16:34
Well if you think Lovenkrands and Burke can match Rothen and Giuly then sure.
I didn't say I think they can match them, but they are good enough for the spl.
Flipper the Priest
10-05-2004, 16:40
We are as well, probably.
I don't know about that, all those coco pops might ruin your career. ;)
Don't you rate Chris Burke?????
Flipper the Priest
10-05-2004, 16:47