Gers stopper open to Qatar

Bougherra: Keen on Qatar

Rangers defender Madjid Bougherra admits he would be open to playing in Qatar before his career ends.

The Algeria international is currently visiting Qatar to receive treatment for a hamstring injury.

The knock is expected to keep Bougherra on the sidelines for two weeks and he is fully appreciative of the facilities on offer in the Gulf nation.

Bougherra has received a warm welcome during his time in Qatar and he would love to play in the country during his career.

"Yes, why would I not want to play in Qatar?" said Bougherra.

"The Qatari league is one of the best in the Gulf and in Asia. We will see what happens.

"I am very happy to be here in Qatar and I have been very well received.

"I wanted to come here because I was treated here already before the World Cup and there are superb medical facilities."

Injury boost

Meanwhile, assistant boss Ally McCoist has confirmed that Darren Cole and Kyle Lafferty will be fit for their midweek clash with St Johnstone.

Gers suffered a surprise 3-2 home defeat to Dundee United on Saturday and McCoist is delighted the pair will be available on Tuesday.

"Darren is back fit again as is Kyle Lafferty so that will bring our squad back up to the required number," he told the club's official website.

"We've got one or two other injured players, guys such as Kirk Broadfoot, Madjid Bougherra and Lee McCulloch who might be back shortly.

"Therefore our situation might ease slightly over the next week or so, although it's always very difficult to tell when they are going to come back."