Neil Couldn't Get Start For Glove Or Money

Mar 9 2008 By Gordon Waddell

NEIL ALEXANDER knew he had given up his right to a No.1 jersey after eight straight years when he signed for Rangers.

But the five-week wait to make his first Ibrox start has still felt like a lifetime.

The Gers back-up will take his place between the sticks against Hibs in the Scottish Cup fifthround replay today with Allan McGregor suspended after his late red card in the first tie.

Alexander turns 30 tomorrow and has had nearly 400 top-team games with Stenhousemuir, Livingston, Cardiff and Ipswich.

But Neil (right) admits he's desperate to make a big impression on his new boss and fans. The Scotland squad man said: "It was a shock coming on so late against Hibs and facing a free-kick. Thankfully it went over the bar and the whistle blew.

"But it got my debut out the way. Now I have my first home game and can't wait.

"I'd like to hope I'm the same keeper who impressed Walter in the Kirin Cup with Scotland."

Alexander made 31 starts for Ipswich this season but didn't think twice when Gers swooped.

Neil said: "I haven't been used to being second choice as I've been No.1 for eight years. But being at Rangers is something I couldn't turn down."