Smith impressed by Kyle

New signing could face Kaunas

Last updated: 27th July 2008

kyle lafferty northern ireland

Lafferty: In line to face Kaunas

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Walter Smith has hinted Kyle Lafferty could start Rangers' UEFA Champions League qualifier against Kaunas.

Lafferty impressed in a wide left position during Saturday's 2-1 win over Raith Rovers and he could be handed his European debut in midweek.

Smith has admitted Northern Ireland international Lafferty may have played his way into his side for the clash with Kaunas.

Promise

"Kyle has a chance of playing on Wednesday," said Smith. "He has had an awkward build-up so far after getting a week's training then hurting his back.

"When we were in Holland and Germany for training, he didn't do any training at all but he is up and running again now.

"He showed a little bit of promise on Saturday and we are hopeful that will stand him in good stead."

Rangers will go into the game with Kaunas without key defender Carlos Cuellar after he was forced to limp off against Raith.

Lafferty admits it is a big blow to lose the big Spaniard for the crucial qualifier.

"Carlos is so important for us but there's enough talent ready to stand in for him and I'm sure whoever's picked will do a job," said Lafferty.

"It's a big game and we have to be ready."