Smith keen for Boyd stay

Rangers boss cannot guarantee starting place every week

By Laura Slatcher   Last updated: 26th May 2008

Boyd Kris

Boyd: Smith support

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Rangers manager Walter Smith insists he does not want to see Kris Boyd quit the club despite not being able to guarantee him a starting place every week.

The striker scored two goals in Saturday's Scottish Cup Final helping Rangers claim the trophy, but he revealed after the game that he will consider his future at Ibrox.

Boyd joined the club from Kilmarnock in January 2006 but has become increasingly frustrated at his time spent on the bench, making just 17 league starts this season.

Smith has moved to reassure fans by insisting he hopes the 24-year-old will remain at Ibrox and says he has heard no concerns from Boyd.

"I'm quite happy to have him," said Smith. "There is no problem in that respect.

No problems

"Like every other player, he'll want to play more regularly than he has this season. But it's just the way that I feel is the best way for Rangers to play.

"Actually, Kris has played a lot of games and has finished up our top goalscorer. I don't see it as a big problem.

"But I know what the problem is from his point of view, which is that he wants to play more than he has done this season. And maybe next season he will.

"He has occasionally complained to me about not playing, which I'm pleased about, because he wants to play.

"But I have a lot of other considerations at the same time. The stronger I can make my team, the more he can play."

Boyd could face more competition from Derby striker Kenny Miller next season who has been linked with a move back to Scotland.

Miller return?

Smith refused to be drawn on whether a deal will be struck but does not see a problem if the former Celtic and Rangers striker becomes one of his summer recruits.

"It is not for me to say at this time," said Smith on the likelihood of Miller signing. "Let's wait and see how we go over the summer."

Meanwhile Boyd's team-mate Lee McCulloch reveals it would be a loss if the striker leaves Ibrox, revealing it was him who lifted the mood after Rangers lost the title.

"Thursday night was a massive disappointment. It wasn't the best," said McCulloch.

"But on Friday, Boydie's moustache got a few laughs from the boys. There was a bet between Boydie and me and he lost so he had to go along with it and grow the moustache.

"It was brilliant - he looked like Freddie Mercury."