Novo keen to move off the bench for Rangers

Nacho Novo is hoping for a greater slice of the action as Walter Smith's side continue their hectic run of big games.

Rangers' Spanish forward has had to settle for a role off the bench in the last three games. But he said Smith is managing his resources well as Rangers continue their quadruple challenge with a Premier League date at Dundee United tomorrow.

With Rangers looking to add to their CIS Insurance Cup trophy, by winning the SPL, Scottish Cup and Uefa Cup, Novo should have a significant role to play before the season is out, not always as substitute.

"I enjoy starting every game but you also need to think of the team," he said. "Maybe years ago I would moan about it and I would go and talk with people and say, 'Why am I not playing?'. But I think when you get experience and get older, you need to think more of the team. The only thing I need to do to confuse the gaffer is on the training ground, work really hard and try to get my chance."

The new Celtic coach Neil Lennon does not believe he has been brought back to Parkhead in a merely talismanic role. Lennon will be in the dugout for today's game against Motherwell as the Hoops try to close the six-point gap on Rangers.

He said: "I don't believe in talismans," he said. "I believe in hard work and playing hard football at the right time. We have eight massive games left. We have to dig in and try to find a way to win each game and I will help as much I can."

Financially troubled Gretna's home match against Inverness has been given the go-ahead following talks with the club's administrators yesterday.