Smith calm over Gers future

Gordon Smith: Remains confident over Rangers' long-term future

Rangers director of football Gordon Smith remains confident over the long-term future of the club after they filed notice of their intention to enter administration on Monday.

The Scottish Premier League champions are facing a tax bill which owner Craig Whyte has admitted could go up to £75million.

Rangers will be automatically hit with a 10-point deduction by the Scottish Premier League if they enter administration, which would all but end their bid for a fourth successive title.

The Ibrox club would also face a race against time to sort their finances in time to earn a licence to play in Europe next season.

Gers' position has prompted concerns over the club's long-term future but Smith, a former Rangers player, has moved to allay such fears.

Positive

"I am just finding out like everyone else what is happening today," he told Sky Sports News.

"As an ex-player and a member of staff as well, obviously it is very disappointing.

"But it might be the positive way ahead. There are other issues there in terms of finance to do with the tax case that have to be dealt with.

"Rangers will be here as a club for the long-term.

"My understanding is that Rangers are always going to be here.

"This is to try to take care of the short-term financial problems the club has and once that financial problem has been sorted, this club will be stronger and go forward in a strong manner."