Boyd: Make Me Happy Camper

Nov 4 2007 By Gordon Waddell

KRIS BOYD last night issued a "play me" plea to Walter Smith ahead of Wednesday's Champions League showdown in Barcelona.

The Scotland striker netted his eighth goal of the season in Rangers' 2-0 win over Inverness Caley Thistle yesterday.

But he hasn't started a European clash since their first qualifier of the season against FK Zeta in July.

And with the game of their lives ahead of Gers in the Nou Camp the 24-year-old wants to play more than a bit-part. Despite fit-again Jean-Claude Darcheville looking like boss Smith's best bet for a lone frontman, with Daniel Cousin pushing him hard, the Ibrox club's top scorer said: "I want to play but obviously it's the gaffer's decision. It's a stage we all want to perform on - there is none bigger than the Nou Camp, it's a cauldron.

"Whatever decision Walter makes though I will stand by it and get on with things."

Whether he starts or not Boyd insists Gers can get a result in the Nou Camp.

He said: "We've proved and Scotland have proved we can beat clubs and nations who are bigger and better than us.

"The country has turned a corner, as have the clubs, and we should see it as a bonus for everyone if we can do anything in this game."

Smith (right) has a full squad to choose from, minus the suspended Kevin Thomson, and admits having Darcheville fit again at last is a huge boost.

The Frenchman has not started for 10 games after being sidelined by a serious hamstring injury.

The Gers boss said:"We hope he can stay injury-free for the rest of the season.

"We've not had Darche fully fit at all yet he has still made a big impact. But now that he's hopefully over his problems we can benefit from his knowledge and ability to bring out the best in other players.

"When he and Cousin came on they gave us a lift and freshness although to be fair Boyd and Nacho Novo played a tough game in midweek against Motherwell." Smith can now turn his attention to Barca with Gers' next SPL game against Falkirk three weeks away because of the international break.

He said: "That will give our guys a bit of respite. Even the ones on international duty will only have one game to worry about after Wednesday night.

"But obviously Barcelona is one we're looking forward to. It's a hell of a place, a great stadium.

"And although there's pressure and the section is so tight we'll go there and do our best."

Smith's one worry yesterday was skipper Barry Ferguson limping heavily at the end of the first half but the gaffer said: "It was only a knock to the ankle. Barry will be fine."