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Daily Record
7 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Record
I was in the last Rangers team who faced Panathinaikos and we brushed off their missiles by dumping them out of Europe
Steven Naismith got a taste of the cauldron of noise at the Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium during Gers run to the UEFA Cup final in 2008 THE last time Rangers faced Panathinaikos in Athens Steven Naismithhad to sprint up the tunnel to avoid being hit by coins and glass bottles. And that was just in the WARM-UP. As a wet-behind-the-ears 21-year-old, he was blown away by the atmosphere at the Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium. There were only 16,000 inside the ground that night in 2008 as Walter Smith 's side secured a 1-1 draw to progress in the UEFA Cup. It was the start of their memorable run to the final in Manchester, which ended in defeat to Zenit St Petersburg. Now, 17 years on, Gers are gearing up to take on the Greens again – this time in a crucial Champions League qualifier next month. This game will be played at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, which will house 75,000 fanatical supporters. And if the atmosphere is anything like what it's like at their home ground, Naismith says Russell Martin and his side are in for a baptism of fire. It will be the new gaffer's first competitive action since taking over at Ibrox. After a home leg in Govan, they'll attempt to reach the next Champions League qualifying round and eventually the lucrative group stage. But Naismith knows it won't be easy in the Greek heat, having experienced it himself as a player. The former Rangers forward said: 'That was one of the most hostile places ever. It was on the run to the UEFA Cup Final. 'I remember Gate 13. That is where the tunnel is and all the Ultras gather round it. Naively, I was laughing and joking coming out for the warm-up. 'But the next minute, there were glass bottles, coins, all sorts getting launched at us. Every time you went near the tunnel, you had to sprint in and sprint out. 'It was really hostile, that's my biggest memory of it. The night turned out to be really good for us, with Nacho Novo coming on and scoring to make it 1-1. It was a brilliant environment to play in but very hostile. 'When you look at the teams Rangers could have got, it's definitely the toughest opposition. On top of that, you've had a takeover, a new manager and a squad rebuild that needs to happen.' Naismith stood up to the challenge against Panathinaikos that night and helped Rangers qualify. And he says ties like these are where new boss Martin will really find out about his players' character. Naismith believes individuals can either thrive or wilt under the pressure, which is the true test of being an Old Firm player. He said: 'You can talk about an atmosphere but until you're in it and experience it, it's just words. 'When you do experience it, it's a case of what way are you going? Are you intimidated or do you think this is good? 'That's the real root of whether you're going to be a success at Rangers or Celtic. It's about mentality. Do you go into that environment in Athens and think I'm up for that, I like a bit of this? 'Or do you say, don't give me the ball because I'm scared? If it's the latter, you won't be a success. 'And that can be players with great ability. For the last 30 years, Rangers and Celtic have signed players who are brilliant in other leagues but can't hack it here. 'It's all down to mentality. That's been a problem for Rangers. To say players have hidden is unfair. They just can't hack it. 'Philippe Clement made a point of buying younger players to develop. But younger players rarely have that mentality straight away and are ready to go. 'That's where they become safe. When they're 1-0 down at home with 10 minutes to go and they don't want to make a brave pass or shoot from a tight angle. It's tough.' Martin will be under the microscope from the off as Rangers manager, with Champions League qualifiers sandwiched between Scottish Premiership games. Financially, it's vital for the club and its new American owners to be dining at Europe's top table. But Naismith insists Martin's first priority has to be the bread-and-butter domestic games – where Rangers have fallen well short in recent years. He said: 'As important as Champions League and European success is – if Rangers miss out on this one but make the next 10 – that's proper success. 'You have to understand where Rangers are at just now. I think that success domestically has to be the first aim. Of course, it's not as clear-cut as saying it's one over the other – because Rangers can have both. 'But what won't be accepted is what's happened in previous years where it has been: 'Oh we've done well in Europe but we're 10 or 15 points behind in the league'. 'That just won't what has to change. Rangers have to beat the other teams in the Scottish top flight. If you look at the points they dropped against teams from the middle to low end of the table last season, it was unacceptable. 'That's how the gap goes from being four points – where there is still pressure on the team at the top – to that big a gap where it becomes easy and the team at the top can cruise.' ● Steven Naismith was speaking courtesy of William Hill and the Warm-Up, SPFL title sponsors.
The Herald Scotland
7 days ago
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
Naismith on Rangers' 'hostile' UCL trip and key Martin aim
A trip to face the Athens-based side was one of Naismith's most memorable as a Rangers player for all the right and wrong reasons. "That was one of the most hostile places ever," he said. "It was on the run to the UEFA Cup Final. I remember, even from the warm-up, Gate 13, where the tunnel is. That's where the Ultras are. Naively, I was laughing and joking, coming out for the warm-up. But the next minute, there were glass bottles, coins, all sorts getting launched at us. Every time you went near the tunnel, you had to sprint in and sprint out. It was really hostile, that's my biggest memory of it. The night turned out to be really good for us, with Nacho [Novo] coming on and scoring to make it 1-1. It was a brilliant environment to play in, but very hostile. Read more: "You can talk about an atmosphere but until you're in it and experience it, it's just words. When you do experience it, it's a case of what way are you going? Are you intimidated or do you think this is good? That's the real root of whether you're going to be a success at Rangers or Celtic. It's about mentality. Do you go into that environment and think I'm up for that, I like a bit of this - or do you say, don't give me the ball because I'm scared? If it's the latter, you won't be a success." In drawing Panathinaikos, Rangers missed out on facing Servette of Switzerland and Norwegian champions Brann. "When you look at the teams they could have got, it's definitely the toughest opposition," added Naismith. "On top of that, you've had a takeover, a new manager and a squad rebuild that needs to happen. But as important as Champions League and European success is, if they missed out on this one but made the next 10, that's proper success. You have to understand where Rangers are at. "It's tough for any team competing in Europe. That's the toughest part, how early it is. The Old Firm have both been put out in early rounds in the past. You can train as much as you want and have friendlies - but you can't replicate that intensity of competitive football. It's going to be really difficult." New head coach Russell Martin has yet to dip his hand in European management. His possession-based, attack-minded approach could well set the heather alight in Scotland, although in the Premier League with Southampton, it failed to bear fruit. Ange Postecoglou was criticised for his refusal to switch it up on the European scene while at Celtic and Martin might face similar reproval should he remain stubborn on the continent. Regardless, his systematic style will be beneficial for his squad, according to Naismith. "It definitely makes things easier as a player when the manager has a clear, definite way of playing. "Players want simplicity in terms of their role. The style can be complex but as long as the player can understand it simply, it makes it easier. Russ' style is one that players will enjoy. The players who will find it most challenging are defenders. Because he'll ask them to do certain things and be in certain positions that can be uncomfortable. There will be a higher risk because if you're not in the right position it can be really costly. But every other player will be rubbing their hands because it's so enjoyable. "It's the way you wanted to play football growing up. He's worked on it for five years and has been successful. At every club, he's made them a better team and improved players. The proof of that is the sale of players he's worked with. They've moved on for a profit compared to when he brought them in." As well as playing alongside Martin at Norwich City, Naismith lined up with Max Aarons, who is set to become the new gaffer's first signing, all going well. "Max has got really good attributes. He's a modern-day full-back. He's not the tallest but very comfortable on the ball, quick and dynamic both going forward and defensively. "Probably the biggest thing I remember about Max is his attitude with sport. As a young player he was so deceptive to learn and get better and be better. That's why he got into a good Norwich team in the Championship and into the Premier League and eventually Barca come and ask him for you. That tells you a lot about him. "His career has maybe stumbled recently but he's definitely somebody with a high potential. He's got good experience and he's played at a really good level against some top players. I think he'd be a good signing. I think he's somebody who would raise the quality of the squad. If we go back to the previous remit, he's probably been signing young players and developing them. I think he's somebody who comes in and challenges right away." While getting his squad in a sufficient enough state to contest crucial European qualifiers is first up on Martin's Rangers agenda, Naismith thinks getting the club back to the top of the pile in Scotland must be his overarching target. In years gone by, the Govan side's ability to stumble against Scottish Premiership cannon-fodder yet pull off shock results against European teams of a considerable pedigree has been impressive. "I think success domestically has to be the first aim," admits Naismith. "It's not as clear cut as saying it's one over the other - because Rangers can have both. "But what won't be accepted is what's happened in previous years where it's been: 'Oh we've done well in Europe but we're 10 or 15 points behind in the league'. That just won't wash. That's what has to change. Rangers have to beat the other teams in the league. If you look at the points they dropped against teams from the mid-to-low end of the table, it was unacceptable. That's how the gap goes from being four points - where there is still pressure on the team at the top - to that big a gap where it becomes easy and the team at the top can cruise."
The National
7 days ago
- Sport
- The National
Naismith on Rangers' 'hostile' UCL trip and key Martin aim
Greek giants Panathinaikos lie in wait for the Ibrox club in the second qualifying round of the Champions League. A trip to face the Athens-based side was one of Naismith's most memorable as a Rangers player for all the right and wrong reasons. "That was one of the most hostile places ever," he said. "It was on the run to the UEFA Cup Final. I remember, even from the warm-up, Gate 13, where the tunnel is. That's where the Ultras are. Naively, I was laughing and joking, coming out for the warm-up. But the next minute, there were glass bottles, coins, all sorts getting launched at us. Every time you went near the tunnel, you had to sprint in and sprint out. It was really hostile, that's my biggest memory of it. The night turned out to be really good for us, with Nacho [Novo] coming on and scoring to make it 1-1. It was a brilliant environment to play in, but very hostile. Read more: "You can talk about an atmosphere but until you're in it and experience it, it's just words. When you do experience it, it's a case of what way are you going? Are you intimidated or do you think this is good? That's the real root of whether you're going to be a success at Rangers or Celtic. It's about mentality. Do you go into that environment and think I'm up for that, I like a bit of this - or do you say, don't give me the ball because I'm scared? If it's the latter, you won't be a success." In drawing Panathinaikos, Rangers missed out on facing Servette of Switzerland and Norwegian champions Brann. "When you look at the teams they could have got, it's definitely the toughest opposition," added Naismith. "On top of that, you've had a takeover, a new manager and a squad rebuild that needs to happen. But as important as Champions League and European success is, if they missed out on this one but made the next 10, that's proper success. You have to understand where Rangers are at. "It's tough for any team competing in Europe. That's the toughest part, how early it is. The Old Firm have both been put out in early rounds in the past. You can train as much as you want and have friendlies - but you can't replicate that intensity of competitive football. It's going to be really difficult." New head coach Russell Martin has yet to dip his hand in European management. His possession-based, attack-minded approach could well set the heather alight in Scotland, although in the Premier League with Southampton, it failed to bear fruit. Ange Postecoglou was criticised for his refusal to switch it up on the European scene while at Celtic and Martin might face similar reproval should he remain stubborn on the continent. Regardless, his systematic style will be beneficial for his squad, according to Naismith. "It definitely makes things easier as a player when the manager has a clear, definite way of playing. "Players want simplicity in terms of their role. The style can be complex but as long as the player can understand it simply, it makes it easier. Russ' style is one that players will enjoy. The players who will find it most challenging are defenders. Because he'll ask them to do certain things and be in certain positions that can be uncomfortable. There will be a higher risk because if you're not in the right position it can be really costly. But every other player will be rubbing their hands because it's so enjoyable. "It's the way you wanted to play football growing up. He's worked on it for five years and has been successful. At every club, he's made them a better team and improved players. The proof of that is the sale of players he's worked with. They've moved on for a profit compared to when he brought them in." As well as playing alongside Martin at Norwich City, Naismith lined up with Max Aarons, who is set to become the new gaffer's first signing, all going well. "Max has got really good attributes. He's a modern-day full-back. He's not the tallest but very comfortable on the ball, quick and dynamic both going forward and defensively. "Probably the biggest thing I remember about Max is his attitude with sport. As a young player he was so deceptive to learn and get better and be better. That's why he got into a good Norwich team in the Championship and into the Premier League and eventually Barca come and ask him for you. That tells you a lot about him. "His career has maybe stumbled recently but he's definitely somebody with a high potential. He's got good experience and he's played at a really good level against some top players. I think he'd be a good signing. I think he's somebody who would raise the quality of the squad. If we go back to the previous remit, he's probably been signing young players and developing them. I think he's somebody who comes in and challenges right away." While getting his squad in a sufficient enough state to contest crucial European qualifiers is first up on Martin's Rangers agenda, Naismith thinks getting the club back to the top of the pile in Scotland must be his overarching target. In years gone by, the Govan side's ability to stumble against Scottish Premiership cannon-fodder yet pull off shock results against European teams of a considerable pedigree has been impressive. "I think success domestically has to be the first aim," admits Naismith. "It's not as clear cut as saying it's one over the other - because Rangers can have both. "But what won't be accepted is what's happened in previous years where it's been: 'Oh we've done well in Europe but we're 10 or 15 points behind in the league'. That just won't wash. That's what has to change. Rangers have to beat the other teams in the league. If you look at the points they dropped against teams from the mid-to-low end of the table, it was unacceptable. That's how the gap goes from being four points - where there is still pressure on the team at the top - to that big a gap where it becomes easy and the team at the top can cruise."
Glasgow Times
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Rutherglen: Walters Bar shares opening date and launch party
Taking over the former Gorman's Bar at 33 Queen Street, Walter's will officially open its doors on Tuesday, July 1. But punters are being told to mark their calendars for the real party just days later. READ MORE: 'Rare' Rangers pub hits the market near Glasgow for just £85K Owners are pulling out all the stops for their Pre-Season Party on Sunday, July 6, promising customers that the party will be "one to remember." The event will feature live coverage of Rangers' pre-season match against Club Brugge at 2pm, followed by live music from Lorri, The Loyal Blues Singer, at 4pm. The team at Walter's announced the news with a social media post: 'We officially open on Tuesday, July 1… but the BIG one is Sunday, July 6! "Rangers vs Club Brugge live from 2pm, then from 4pm, Lorri, The Loyal Blues Singer, will bring the tunes and the atmosphere. "This is more than just a new pub — it's a home for the loyal. "Come celebrate the start of something special at Walter's. "Free entry — but get down early!' Fans have shared their excitement in the comments, with one writing: 'Sunday sesh?' The Glasgow Times reported at the start of the month that the new venue promises to be more than just a traditional pub—it aims to become a hub for Rangers supporters and a celebration of the club's history. READ MORE: New Rangers spot Walters Bar to open soon in Rutherglen (Image: Newsquest) The new Rangers spot is named in tribute to legendary former Rangers manager, the late Walter Smith. Smith took charge of Rangers in 1991, succeeding Graeme Souness, and led the club to unprecedented success, winning 13 major trophies in seven years, including seven consecutive league titles. After a spell managing the Scotland national team, where he notably lifted them 70 places in the FIFA World Rankings, Smith returned to Rangers in 2007 and added eight more trophies to his collection. He guided the team to the 2008 UEFA Cup Final before retiring in 2011. Walter Smith remains the second-most successful manager in Rangers' history, behind only Bill Struth, and is deeply revered by fans across generations.
STV News
09-06-2025
- Sport
- STV News
O'Neill: Celtic will have appetite for Europe after Champions League run
Martin O'Neill believes Celtic will have a growing appetite to kick on again in Europe next season after a 'terrific' run in the Champions League. The Hoops reached the knockout stages of the top competition for the first time in over a decade, following wins over Slovan Bratislava, RB Leipzig, and Young Boys, and draws with Club Brugge, Atalanta, and Dinamo Zagreb in the League Phase. They were knocked out in the last-16 play-off after an agonising injury-time winner for Bayern Munich in Germany sealed a 3-2 aggregate defeat. And O'Neill, who was in charge for some memorable European nights, including wins over Juventus, Liverpool, and Ajax, during his five-year spell in the east end of Glasgow, believes that that run will stand Brendan Rodgers' side in good stead for the season ahead. He said: 'We all thought that the new format would suit teams like Celtic, which is great, but just now, as you're getting your feet together in European football, I think they were terrific. 'Recovering from the debacle against Dortmund, to go to Atalanta and get a result there, then beating Leipzig. And then to crown it all, a brilliant performance in Munich against Bayern Munich of all teams. 'So that all augurs really well for next season. 'I'm quite sure (that they now have the base to take another step forward next season), there's no question about it, and I don't think there will be any resting on laurels or anything like that. 'I think that the run in the Champions League will actually have given them an appetite to go even further if that's at all possible. 'I think it's reawakened European football, big time over at Celtic Park.' O'Neill, who won seven major honours, including a domestic treble, and reached a UEFA Cup Final when he was in the Celtic dugout between 2000-2005, believes his former club will be looking to improve again in the summer despite another successful season that ended with a Premiership and League Cup double. And he insists that movements over at Ibrox might be a driving force in Celtic's pre-season recruitment, but argues that a strong Rangers can be beneficial to the Parkhead men. He continued: 'Some players might leave the football club, and you will always have to supplement the squad regardless. 'But it's like everything else. I'm looking at it from a managerial viewpoint, and every single season I was always saying to the board that we had to try and invest in the squad, because you want to try and stay as strong as possible. 'You don't know what might happen over the other side of the city. They've got a new manager coming in now, and for Celtic to stay strong, I think they really do need Rangers to be as strong as possible as well. 'I mean, going back to my time, I was up against Alex (McLeish) for a few years, and before that it was Dick Advocaat, but Rangers were incredibly strong at that time, really strong, so we had to be strong ourselves.' Celtic were denied a world record ninth domestic treble when they fell at the last hurdle in a penalty shootout defeat to Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final. But O'Neill doesn't think that result diminishes what was an overall successful season for his former club. He said: 'Of course, it's disappointing because the treble was within their grasp. 'And I suppose, having beaten Aberdeen maybe ten days before the final, some people maybe felt that just turning up would have been enough to win the cup. but I'm quite sure that that was not the attitude. 'However, it's been a great season with another championship won, and then, if you talk about the run in the Champions League, it was really excellent.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
