Rangers v Bursaspor - Smith - home form is vital

Posted Wednesday, September 29, 2010 by PA

Walter Smith claims Rangers cannot be considered favourites for any of their Champions League games - including the clash with Bursaspor at Ibrox.

The Scottish champions finished bottom of their section last season after failing to earn a single point a home and, as far as Smith is concerned, that record means they can take nothing for granted this time.

However, he admits Rangers must add to the point they gained against Manchester United in their Group C opener when they host the Turks to have any real chance of remaining in Europe beyond Christmas.

"I don't think after the home form last season we could go into any game in the Champions League as the favoured team," said Smith.

"We would hope we would do better at home this season. We need to achieve a far better balance between our attacking and defending than we have so far.

"All we have to do is concentrate on better performances at home this season than we had last season, that's the main objective from our own point of view.

"Our away form last season, for the Champions League, wasn't too bad. It was our home form that was really disappointing and we have to make sure that we make the adjustment.

"The home games have been the problem for us. Having two home games coming up can be looked upon as an advantage but, in our case, we have to make that way.

"If we are hoping to have European football, of any kind, after Christmas we have to adjust the home form and that starts with tomorrow night's game."

Smith - who is still sweating over the fitness of midfielder Steven Davis - refused to give too much away about his team selection.

He said: "We hope to set the team up in the manner that will help us win the game, that's the most important thing. To give ourselves the best opportunity to win is what we always try to set out to do. Trying to find the proper balance is the most important thing for us.

"Last year in the Champions League we didn't manage to do that. In each of the home games, we lost the first goal and I always think that's one of the most important factors.

"If we can manage to get the first goal, then it certainly helps you. If you need to chase the game by being a goal down, it makes it a bit more difficult.

"That's what we have found in the Champions League in the past. That's been our problem, certainly last year."