The questions asked of Ally McCoist this week should not involve player betting habits or boardroom turmoil.

Rather, McCoist will send a team out to be judged on the park, where he at least exerts control.

The Ramsdens Cup may seem an unlikely setting for scrutiny as Rangers roll up their sleeves for their Tuesday night tie against Queen of the South, but its outcome will inevitably lead to close inspection.

McCoist rebuffed suggestions there is a pressure on Rangers to land one of the domestic cups, despite former chairman Charles Green declaring that the manager would be looking at an exit if he didn't supplement progression through the leagues this season with at least one piece of additional silverware.

"There's a pressure that's always there, but I don't feel any added pressure," he said. "We will treat Queen of the South as if it's the League Cup, the Scottish Cup or anyother league game."

Keeper Cammy Bell has effectively had to kick his heels for the past month before the transfer embargo on the club ended, but he can now expect to drive home his status as first-choice goalkeeper at Rangers. He will be kept on his toes by new arrival Steve Simonsen, with Scott Gallacher now away on loan to Airdrieonians.

"At Kilmarnock I went out to get a clean sheet and I'll do the same here even if I don't get so many touches," he said, "It's a different game here and I have to concentrate for 90 minutes which can be harder than making 10 saves a game."