Novo tells of Rangers fears

Nacho Novo admits he was worried he would never score for Rangers again when he was frozen out by new boss Paul Le Guen in the summer.

The former Dundee striker was linked with a move to Coventry during the August transfer window but stayed at Ibrox to fight for his place.

And the Spaniard responded to an unexpected recall last week by firing two crucial goals in as many games.

Novo was handed his second start of the season in the UEFA Cup clash in Livorno last Thursday and fired home the clincher in a 3-2 victory.

He was back on the bench three days later but his 85th-minute goal gave Rangers a 3-2 victory at St Mirren for their first Bank of Scotland Premier League win on the road since July.

Novo says the goals have helped his confidence “enormously”.

But he added: “There were times when I didn’t think I would score another goal for Rangers.

“I didn’t know what was going to happen and I felt nervous about my future.

“But the best decision I made was to stay at Rangers. I love the club and am happy to stay and fight for my place.”

Novo celebrated his goal in Italy by running to the touchline and hugging Le Guen.

He told Rangers News: “Everybody has been going through a bad time lately including the manager and I wanted to show we are all together. We’re all behind the manager.

“I was surprised when the manager told me I was starting. But the manager has been good with me and gave me the opportunity.”

Novo says he understood Le Guen’s decision to rest him for the Paisley clash after his exertions in Italy.

He added: “I hope to become a regular again but you never know what will happen.

“The supporters have been fantastic to me and they are probably the main reason why I am determined to succeed at this club.

“They have kept me going with their backing.”

Le Guen praised the Spaniard for responding to the recall.

“It’s great to have a player like Nacho because he has a very good attitude,” the Frenchman said.

“Even if he is on the bench he has a very good spirit and he wants to make a difference.

“He is a player who never gives up and I know he is ready to make a good contribution.”