Smith happy to play Miller

14 January 2011 18:00

Rangers manager Walter Smith does not expect Kenny Miller to receive a hostile reception from the Ibrox faithful in Saturday's Clydesdale Bank Premier League game against Hamilton.

The 22-goal striker, who is out of contract this summer, has failed to agree a new deal with the Scottish champions and has been holding talks with both Birmingham and Fiorentina. He was left out of the squad for Monday's Scottish Cup win over Kilmarnock but is expected to be back in contention for the visit of Accies at Ibrox.

"I'll pick what I think is the best team to play," said the Rangers boss. "Kenny Miller has played exceptionally well for us over the period of time he has been at Rangers."

Smith added: "What's happened now is a normal situation, he wouldn't be the first player to leave under freedom of contract. It happened to us last season and it will happen to us in the future. It will happen to all clubs.

"I don't think the Rangers support can complain in any way, shape or form about the way Kenny Miller has played for Rangers since he's been here.

"He has been terrific for us. If he can't reach agreement with his own club, like every footballer, he is free to go and try to achieve the best he can somewhere else.

"That's what he's doing and I don't think anyone can blame him for that.

"You can only look at what he has done for the club since he has been here and he has played exceptionally well for us in that time.

"I'm sure he will be all right to play if we ask him.

"If Kenny decides he's not going to sign for any club, there is no reason why he shouldn't play for Rangers. He will be available for us on Saturday."

Source: PA