WALTER SMITH today praised Kris Boyd for proving there is more to his game than just scoring goals.

The Rangers manager was delighted with the way the Ibrox striker performed during Saturday's Old Firm victory over Celtic.

Although Boyd failed to find the back of the net once again in a one-on-one face-off with Hoops goalkeeper Artur Boruc, Smith was more than happy with his overall display as he helped his side move into pole position in the title race.

The Rangers boss said: "When Kris has been left out the team in the past it was because his performance wasn't up to his own level of goalscoring, which would be difficult enough for any player because his record is incredible.

"I just think at the weekend there it was one of his best performances for the team. The fact he didn't score a goal - well that happens. Overall his performance was excellent and we were extremely pleased with him on Saturday."

Another Rangers player who Smith singled out for a special mention was goalscoring hero Steven Davis.

The Ibrox boss said: "He has been a real driving force for us at times this season. Since he joined us he has played really well.

"We have had to move him to a slightly wider area of the pitch than he played in before, but he has played really well for us. His workrate and enthusiasm is something that rubs off on the other players around him."

Smith will watch with great interest tonight as Celtic entertain Dundee United at Parkhead with the pressure very much on the Hoops to secure all three points.

Currently two-points better off than their Old Firm rivals thanks to their 1-0 derby win, Smith is thrilled that Rangers are now in control of their own destiny with just three matches remaining.

He told Rangers World: "We are delighted at the situation we now find ourselves in. At certain stages of the season we wouldn't have expected that to be the case.

"But we've worked very hard and we've had some terrific results in recent weeks so it's just a matter of keeping it going at present. However, Saturday's win over Celtic was obviously a massive result for us.

"I think one of the terrific things about it is that we've clocked up a run of wins at a stage of the season when we have been missing players.

"We've not really been best placed in terms of injuries, suspensions and one or two off-the-field problems yet we have managed to keep winning.

"I think it's to the enormous credit of everyone who has taken part in the games as they have been really committed and played some good football at times too."