Source: Team_Talk
Bougherra 'focused' on Terrors test
The Light Blues defender will take his place in the Ibrox line-up against Dundee United at Tannadice on Sunday after his red card picked up during last week's 2-1 win over Aberdeen was downgraded to a yellow by a Scottish Football Association review panel.
Victory for Walter Smith's side will secure their first SPL championship in four years, regardless of how Celtic fare against Hearts at Parkhead, and their quest can only be helped by the inclusion of former Charlton stopper Bougherra, who has been arguably the best player at Ibrox this season.
However, the 26-year-old was in limbo in the immediate aftermath of last week's dismissal by referee Stuart Dougal at Ibrox.
The Algerian, who was shown the red card for his challenge on Dons keeper Jamie Langfield, said: "It's difficult to be focused because you don't know if you are going to play or not.
"But the decision from the referee (to admit he was wrong) came quickly and when I heard that, I was confident.
"I was happy and I had a good feeling.
"When I thought I would miss the game, I was frustrated because this is a big game and you wait all year to play in a game like this.
"But, when I saw the replay after the game, I was confident of the appeal.
"Thanks to the referee for the referral because it's not easy to come to the decision.
"I'm very happy. It's a big bonus for me."
Walter Smith was aware of the significance of having Bougherra beside veteran defender Davie Weir for what is certain to be a fraught afternoon on Tayside.
"We were delighted to get the decision reversed," the Ibrox boss said.
"It was important to have him back, because he's been excellent for us this season.
"I'm pleased for him because he has missed a number of games for us this season and I didn't want him to miss out on this one."
