Top of the table is the only position Smith cares about

RANGERS manager Walter Smith insists he has no interest in who finishes second in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League – as long as his side finish first.

The Ibrox outfit must now wait at least until the weekend to wrap up the title when they play host to Hearts after Celtic's 2-1 win over Motherwell last night.

As well as delaying the championship celebrations, the Hoops' victory allowed them to move eight points clear of Dundee United ahead of their clash with Rangers this evening.

But, as United boss Peter Houston declared after leading his side into the final of the Active Nation Scottish Cup at the weekend, they have Celtic in the their sights for the runners-up spot.

Smith is well aware that other teams still have plenty to play for but says his only concern is ensuring Rangers finish top of the pile. He said: "I'm really only concerned about our challenge for first place, that's the thing that concerns me more than anything else. Whatever happens in the league outside that will happen."

Meanwhile, Darren Dods insists the Tannadice dugouts will tonight be filled by this season's two outstanding SPL managers. Houston was named top boss for March yesterday.

The United defender is full of admiration for the job Smith has done in his second spell at Ibrox, although he'll be doing all he can to prevent Rangers celebrating back-to-back league titles by trying to guide the Tangerines to victory.

Dods said: "We're in the cup final and have a chance of catching Celtic, so it's all to play for."