Rangers manager Walter Smith has insisted that his future at Ibrox will NOT be determined by this weekend's events.

Speculation has abounded that both he and Celtic counterpart Gordon Strachan will step down regardless of what happens in the race for the Championship.

But speaking before the do-or-die trip to Tannadice, Smith said: "Nothing that happens in the next few days will determine my future one way or the other, unless the chairman says differently."

And the Ibrox boss was satisfied that common sense prevailed as defender Madjid Bougherra, as expected, was cleared to play in the critical game against United.

"It is important for us to have him back," he said. "He has been excellent for us this season.

"I am delighted that the decision has been reversed and I am pleased for the lad himself because he has missed a number of big games for us this season and we didn't want him to miss this one."

Georgios Samaras cranked up the pressure by insisting that Rangers will not be worthy champions if they win the title, but Smith dismissed theories that this will give his side further motivation to win on Sunday.

"That would be a poor motivator for anyone," said the Rangers boss. "Everyone in Scotland has an opinion - we read and listen to them every day.

"Motivation to win a Championship comes from within. It comes from within a manager and from within players. "Grasping at something else isn't proper motivation."