I have always said that the off-field problems should be of no concern to the guys on the playing side of things.

If you aren't getting your wages I can see how it would be a distraction.

But right now they are paid to do a job and that means going out and playing for the pride of the club.

And as much as I slaughtered them after the Celtic defeat, I have to say that I thought they played far better last weekend against Hibs.

Ultimately, they still lost the game but I think there is always a bit more respect from those paying their money every week if they at least see that you are prepared to roll up the sleeves and get stuck in.

They had 21 shots on goal with nine attempts on target last weekend but still didn't manage to score so that is something that they need to work on.

But at least they were getting into the right areas of the pitch and asking a few questions of Hibs.

The same type of performance will be required at Stark's Park tomorrow night.

Raith Rovers have already beaten Rangers in the cup so there will be no reminder necessary of what can happen if everyone isn't switched on.

There are 12 players in that Ibrox dressing room who are out of contract at the end of the season and, if nothing else, they should be playing out of their skin for themselves.

Who knows what will happen at Rangers, but they ought to be showing what they have got for their own futures - at Rangers or elsewhere.

There was a bit more fight and a bit more spirit last weekend and that is what has got to be evident against Raith.

There is no point in limping meekly to the end of the season - they need to get their finger out and pick up as many points between now and then as possible.

If they can do that then it is still within them to get a play-off place and get themselves back into the top flight next season.

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