Bougherra blames fatigue for slip-up

(GSM) – Madjid Bougherra has sent out a warning to Valencia that Rangers will be fully focused on performing well at the Mestalla despite their recent SPL slip-up against Inverness on Saturday.

Walter Smith’s side dropped their first points of the league campaign after being held to a 1-1 draw by the promoted side at Ibrox.

After a perfect 27 from possible 27 points in their opening nine games, Gers fell victim to fatigue as suggested by Algeria international Bougherra.

However, despite the lapses Bougherra has sounded out a warning that Gers will be focused when they travel to the Mestalla on Tuesday to tackle Liga giants Valencia in the Champions League for a place in the last 16 of the competition.

“We went out wanting to win but some of the players were tired,” said Bougherra. “They’re playing every game and we didn’t have the freshness for the last pass, the last touch.

“I suppose it’s better this result came early in the season as we’ll be aware of it in the next match.

“We have a small squad and we are feeling the demands of so many games. But it’s not the end of the world as we’re still top of the table.

“We have to pick ourselves up for Tuesday. You don’t need motivation for the Champions League. When you come out on the pitch and hear that music it’s a different world. It’s such a vital game because if we win or draw we’re still on our way to qualify for the last 16.

“You don’t feel tiredness in games like this. It’s more mental. That’s why we must forget Inverness and concentrate on Valencia.”