Rangers' Buffel raring to go as Novo faces five weeks

Last updated at 08:49 21 November 2007

Glasgow Rangers' forgotten man Thomas Buffel has begged manager Walter Smith for the chance to rebuild his career in the absence of Nacho Novo.

Spaniard Novo faces up to five weeks out after dislocating his shoulder in a bounce game.

Belgian international Buffel has patiently awaited his chance since undergoing a knee operation and seeing a mooted move to German side Hannover collapse.

The midfielder insists he is fully fit and said: "I've played nine games and am pleased with how I feel now. I'm really up for it and hope to get back soon."

Buffel pressed his case with a fine display in a 4-2 reserve win over Inverness yesterday at Broadwood.

He scored one and set up the other three goals for a side that also included Ugo Ehiogu and Chris Burke.

Full-back Steven Smith, however, has undergone hernia surgery in a bid to end the lay-off that has sidelined him since last December.