NACHO NOVO today appealed to Rangers fans to be patient with Steven Naismith as he bids to rediscover his top form after a lengthy injury lay-off.

Former Scottish Young Player of the Year Naisy made his first start for nine months in last night's 2-0 Homecoming Scottish Cup win over St Johnstone.

The 22-year-old, who injured a knee in the Scottish Cup semi-final against the Saints last season, did well in his 70 minutes on the park.

But Spanish star Novo, who scored after replacing him, reckons there will more be tough times ahead for Naismith.

Nacho told Rangers World: "It is natural for players coming back from long spells out of action to find it hard. Indeed, there are a few examples of individuals here who have taken time to settle after being injured.

"Allan McGregor is one of them, but he has shown how wise keeping faith in him was with a string of excellent saves in the last two matches.

"He made some top saves last night which kept us in the game. People have talked about his form but, when you have a spell off the park with an injury, it takes time to get back to your best.

"You need to get used to playing again and you need a few games to get your confidence back. You can see he has that now and he's doing well.

"Steven has been out for a long time and it will be hard for him to play as well as he can to begin with.

"I have been out myself in the past and I know what it is like. He will need games but he'll keep getting stronger over time."

Novo was booed on to the park by the home team's fans as a result of his efforts against them for former clubs Raith Rovers and Dundee in the past.

But he was un-deterred by the hostile welcome and scored the goal which sent Gers into the fifth round.