Rangers bid for Smith still on hold

9 januari 2007, 12:30 Bijgewerkt: 13:25

Koen Freriks

Rangers' bid to instal Walter Smith as their new manager was continuing to be thwarted on Tuesday morning.

The Scottish Football Association refused Rangers permission to approach Smith on Monday, and their position was reiterated as they fought to keep the national team boss. Smith asked to be released from his contract with the SFA on Monday and was predictably rebuffed.

His request, which came at a meeting prompted by Rangers making contact with the SFA, served to confirm Smith's interest in a return to Ibrox. However, the SFA insisted they would not countenance losing Smith at a crucial stage of their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.