COME ON RANGERS

Last updated : 21 October 2003 By editor

The United boss admitted his friendship with McLeish is one of the reasons why he is keen to see Rangers qualify for the next stage - as group runners-up of course.

Ferguson said:

"Absolutely. I hope that Rangers can go through for Alex's sake and it's really important for Scottish football that Rangers progress. Celtic did well last year in the European Cup but unfortunately didn't quite make the next stage but they went on to the final of the UEFA Cup. I hope Rangers can qualify too and I know they are capable."

Ferguson told Rangers World:

"A lot of people in the Rangers camp were hoping we would win against Stuttgart - so was I!

"We threw that game away - make no mistake about it. What we found about Stuttgart is that they don't really try to win the game and you have to guard against the counter-attack because of that. Rangers will expect a lot of possession over there and I hope they learn from our lesson and keep the back door shut."