Naismith keen to make mark in derby

Steven Naismith wants Rangers boss Walter Smith to unleash him on Celtic in this weekend's Old Firm derby. The midfielder has enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, netting goals in the Scottish Premier League, against Bursaspor in the Champions League and against world champions Spain for Scotland.He would now love to add an Old Firm goal to his collection, insisting his confidence is sky high ahead of Sunday's game.Naismith said: "Just because of the run of form I've been in, this game has come at a good time for me."I've played in two or three Old Firm games and it's really disappointing as a player not to be selected for the big games."Hopefully I'll be selected and have a real go on Sunday. Hopefully I can make my mark."I would love to get a goal and be on the winning side."We know it's a massive - and tough - game."They will be confident with their start to the season and we are going to be confident with the run that we've been on."Both teams have a 100% record and it's all set up nicely."Naismith did not expect both teams to boast such impressive records ahead of the clash at Celtic Park.He said: "It's a bit surprising because over the last few years the clubs have dropped early points."Both squads have been determined this season and put in good performances and got the results. It's a unique position."This game is going to make a difference, without a doubt, with both teams on 100% records."It would give you that psychological boost but there is a long way to go."There are three more Old Firm games and this one won't decide the league, by any means."Naismith believes Celtic boss Neil Lennon deserves credit for instilling a winning mentality at Parkhead."The biggest thing, without doubt, is the good bond," he said."He has brought the winning feeling back to them. It's surprising, when you do change so many players, to get that so quickly."Neil Lennon has managed to get that at Celtic and that's probably why they have had such a good start to the season."

Source: Team_Talk