Steven Naismith ramps Rangers pressure up on Philippe Clement as 'big consequences' hinge on Viaplay Cup semi final

Steven Naismith has told his Hearts stars to play with freedom in a Viaplay Cup semi-final where all the pressure is on Rangers.

The Jambos were beaten in brutal fashion by the Light Blues last weekend. Lawrence Shankland's goal in the first half had them leading up until James Tavernier's 89th minute penalty, and Danilo struck four minutes later to inflict a 2-1 Premiership defeat. He now takes his side to Hampden to fight for a place in the first showpiece of the year, where they will meet Edinburgh rivals Hibs or Aberdeen.

Ahead of the Sunday clash, Naismith is well aware of the demands on new Ibrox boss Philippe Clement, having featured for the Light Blues for five years as a player. He believes expectancy in Govan ramps the dial up on Rangers rather than the capital club. He said: "It gives us the sense that there isn't pressure there.

"That is just the state of it. Everybody does expect them to go through and that then gives us the opportunity that we have nothing to lose, so go out and play with a freedom.

"I have been there. When you're at the Old Firm the expectation is there, that weighs heavy on you when you're going into a game that has big consequences for players and the manager at the club.

"It's small, fine margins that define these games. The demand has got to be we give ourselves the best chance, our last couple of performances have been good and the confidence is there. It's about sticking to what we want to do in and out of possession to give ourselves the best chance."