Mendes focuses on job in hand

Portugal international says he is happy at Gers

Last updated: 26th November 2008

Mendes focuses on job in hand

Mendes: Happy

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Pedro Mendes is focused on helping Rangers win the SPL despite speculation linking him with Spurs.

The Portugal international moved to Ibrox in a £3million summer switch after being sold by then Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp.

Redknapp claimed he had to sell the midfielder to balance the Pompey books but his move to White Hart Lane - where Mendes used to play - has prompted speculation that the pair could be reunited.

But Mendes says he is simply enjoying life north of the border at present, insisting the move was a good one for both himself and his family.

He said: "The only thing I can say at the moment is that I'm happy with the move, I'm happy with the club.

Great club

"I came to Scotland and found a great club, great players and great people working for the club.

"Everyone at the club has helped me and my family very much."

Gers and Celtic's exits from European competition already this season has led some to question the standard of football in the SPL.

But Mendes insists it is a challenging environment to play in, saying: "If you are not in the league, you do not know how hard it is to play in.

"I'm happy with the challenge. We have the challenge to win the title this year and I'm happy to be trying to win it."

While title rivals Celtic were knocked out of Europe by Aalborg on Tuesday, Mendes does not expect the Hoops - who lead the SPL by four points - to lose their domestic focus.

"No matter what happened with Celtic in Europe, whether they got through or not, they will always be a challenger for the title," the former Porto player said.

Tough season

"It will always be a real tough season.

"They will be disappointed at the moment. It's the same frustration that Rangers had earlier in the season.

"Celtic will also be frustrated, but one thing for sure is that the league will always be tough.

"There is still a long way to go but I think at this stage we realise it's better not to drop any more points.

"There is a gap there so we need to win every game and hopefully the other team can drop a couple of points."