Source: Team_Talk
Gers fans braced for Bougherra exit
Rangers fans are "bracing themselves for the worst" after Arsenal target Madjid Bougherra's star showing against England at the World Cup.[LNB] That is the view of John Macmillan, secretary of the Rangers Supporters Clubs, after the defender played a key role in Algeria's goalless draw against Fabio Capello's men on Friday.[LNB]Speculation has surrounded Bougherra's future for months and he now appears to have boosted his chances of sealing a move away from Ibrox this summer, according to the fans' representative.[LNB]"He's a good player and whether we will be able to hold on to him is another matter now," admitted Macmillan.[LNB]"If Algeria go any further in the World Cup, it will be a big stage for him. I think he will be a very difficult one to hold on to.[LNB]"We are probably bracing ourselves for the worst and an offer will come for him to go to the Premiership or, certainly, one of the top Championship clubs."[LNB]Reports today have linked Bougherra with a £6million move to the Gunners as a result of his efforts in South Africa so far.[LNB]Macmillan is not sure the Algerian is ready for a switch to Arsenal but believes a mid-table side in England's top-flight is a more realistic option.[LNB]He said: "He's an excellent player but I couldn't see him at Manchester United or Chelsea, simply because they have an abundance of stars there, not that Arsenal haven't.[LNB]"I would think it's more likely he would go to one of the lesser sides in the Premiership.[LNB]"However, I don't know if he could fulfil any real ambition by going to teams, with all due respect, like Wigan or Bolton or other clubs of that ilk.[LNB]"It's one of the top leagues in the world so, regardless of who you are playing for, you are in among some of the best players in the world."[LNB]Mcmillan does believes the Scottish champions should hold out for a fee in the region of the reported £6m for their prized-asset.[LNB]He said: "In this day and age, Bougherra is worth that. In today's climate, that's a reasonable asking price."[LNB]Teenage centre-half Danny Wilson has been linked with Liverpool after impressing in his debut season for the senior team, meaning Rangers fans could be facing a double blow this summer.[LNB]Macmillan said: "If we lose both Bougherra and Wilson, it would be a major blow, albeit it would be softened a bit by Andy Webster coming back.[LNB]"He looks a much better player now (after his loan spell at Dundee United) and hopefully we will see the best of him next season.[LNB]"David Weir can't be expected to continue forever and both Bougherra and Wilson would be lovely assets to have on your books."
