Over the years Walter Smith developed an interesting theory about competing in the Champions League.
More often than not, the sooner it was over and done with the better as far as the late, great pragmatist was concerned. His insatiable competitive streak, coupled with an instinctive understanding for reading the room, would never allow him to admit as much in public of course. Smith knew some things were better left unsaid.
But, even so, he’d have had no little sympathy for Giovanni van Bronckhorst when the Dutchman conceded that Rangers are simply not sufficiently equipped to trade blows at this level following an opening night evisceration in Amsterdam. Yes, Smith may have relished the tactical challenges which came with squaring up to Europe’s big boys - and he fully appreciated the huge financial windfalls involved. But his overriding concern was almost always centred around how the collateral damage might impact upon his side’s domestic ambitions in the shape of dented confidence and drained legs.
