Rangers boss Walter Smith has backed rookie defender Danny Wilson to withstand the pressure of a Champions League debut against Unirea – if he gives him the chance.

The Gers boss will have to make the decision between giving 17-year-old Wilson the nod or choose experience in the shape of Lee McCulloch.

The clash in Romania is a must win and despite missing Sunday’s abandoned game with Dundee United McCulloch is fit to partner David Weir at centre back.

But with Madjid Bougherra sidelined Smith insists he has no doubts about throwing Wilson into the mix.

"I now have options for the position with Lee fit again and Danny proving he is also ready to step up when given the opportunities,” said Smith. “It's one I will need to sleep on before making any final decision.

“McCulloch is an experienced player but not necessarily in that position. Wilson is still a teenager and I need to consider whether it is in his and our best interests to protect or expose him to a game like this.

"He has played very well though since getting his break and it's not easy for a boy of 17 to come into the team the way he has.

"Whatever I decide the whole team will have to play much better than we did against them at Ibrox if we are to take the points."