Ivan says it's not so terrible

Scotland's four challengers head into the cauldon of Europe this week with a resounding vote of confidence.

Ivan Golac, the man who led Dundee United to their first-ever Scottish Cup win, is certain ALL FOUR will survive.

They all face opposition from Eastern Europe and Golac, the Serb now based in Belgrade, knows their weaknesses.

He warned: "It will be difficult for all the Scots but I expect them to go through.

"There is enormous pressure on RANGERS to reach the Champions' League after disappointments in recent years.

"Alania Vladikavkaz obviously command total respect because they are the top team in Russia. Liverpool were the luckiest team in the world last season to beat them 2-1 on aggregate.

"The fact that they are well into their season while this is Rangers' first competitive game poses a serious problem.

"Walter Smith must be careful and not underestimate the task but Rangers are in a different category to the Russians.

"They don't have cash to spend. They will give everything but Rangers have too much class."

Golac rates CELTIC the best footballing side in Scotland and admires the summer signings made by boss Tommy Burns.

He predicted:"Celtic will beat FC Kosice in the UEFA Cup - the Slovaks have five international players capable of causing problems, but they are uninspired.

"It may only be by one goal but I am sure that Celtic's flair will take them through."

He is equally adamant that ABERDEEN will progress at the expense of UEFA Cup rivals Zalgiris Vilnius.

Golac insisted:"The Dons won't repeat the mistake they made against Skonto Riga.

"Half the Vilnius team are current internationals but Lithuanian football cannot compare to the standard in Scotland.

"The priority for Roy Aitken is to ensure they get the result which allows them to finish the job at Pittodrie. I'll be very surprised if they don't. Again lack of competitive football is Roy's main worry."

Golac warned that HEARTS face the toughest task against his home town team Red Star Belgrade.

He revealed: "Red Star have a great pedigree in Europe and are full of internationals. In Darko Anis, 22, they have one of the best young midfield prospects in Europe.

"I tried unsuccessfully to sign him for Dundee United for pounds 400,000. He has everything it takes to become a world star

"However, they are a very inexperienced side which should peak in two years. Hearts, who have strengthened significantly during the close season, should win."

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