enhanced by google



Smith demands professional approach

Smith expects the unexpected

Published: Sunday, 3 January 2010, 2:10PM

Rangers manager Walter Smith has played down the blistering form of his side ahead of Sunday's Old Firm derby, insisting the three points are far from guaranteed.

The Scottish champions make the short trip to the east end of Glasgow bursting with confidence after coming through December with a 100% record and netting an incredible 26 goals along the way.

But Smith said: "The one thing that is always said about the Old Firm games is that they are a bit unpredictable, regardless of what aspects of your team are doing well."

He added: "The Old Firm games seem to turn all that on its head. We have been scoring regularly in recent weeks but that will be given its full test against Celtic.

"I don't think there could be a tougher place for us to go and try to get a win than Celtic Park.

"Form books and all the other aspects go out the window in Old Firm games.

"I don't think you can look at one aspect of your game and be that confident that, when you're going into an Old Firm match, that that's the way it will pan out.

"It doesn't normally happen like that. Strange things occur in these games and there is a lot of tension involved and a lot of nerves that players have to overcome in these matches."