Kris Boyd could start only his second ever Champions League match for Rangers against Stuttgart this evening. The noises coming out of Rangers suggest that manager Walter Smith is ready to throw in his top scorer in a bid to secure a win.
Smith has never had faith in Boyd’s abilities at the top level of European football, but with the former Kilmarnock player firing on all cylinders in the league this season, the boss is beginning to mellow in his attitude.
Speaking yesterday Smith said: "I'm always tempted to play him. Anybody that gets that number of goals, it's always a temptation.
"Sometimes it's worked out okay (leaving him out) and there's been games where I wished I'd put him in."
Boyd picked up a calf strain in the weekend match against Killie but took part in full training with the squad and should be available tonight.
Rangers’ regular Champions League striker Kenny Miller, who has failed to score in Europe so far this season, has given his backing to the inclusion of Boyd in the side.
He said: "It must be frustrating, but the gaffer picks the team to try to win every game and I don't think anyone can argue he gets it right more often than he gets it wrong.
"But I would like to see Boydy get a run in a game we need to win.”
Smith has given his top striker just a handful of substitute appearances in the Champions League since he returned to resume control of Rangers in 2007.
Now he could play a part in rescuing the Ibrox side’s European campaign for another season. Rangers are sitting bottom of Group G with two points – one behind Stuttgart.
A win for Stuttgart will at least guarantee them Europa League action after Christmas while Rangers must target a win ahead of their final match away to group leaders Sevilla.
Last updated: 24 November 2009, 16:20
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