Uefa Champions League: Given Rangers' almost flawless opening to their Champions League Group E campaign, it is debatable whether they have any need to indulge in mind games when Barcelona walk out at Ibrox tonight - but that has not prevented them trying.

Surprise victories over Stuttgart and Lyon have catapulted Walter Smith's team to the top of the section alongside Barca, six points clear, with back-to-back fixtures beckoning and captain Barry Ferguson claiming there will be no added tension as they prepare to face a virtual who's who of world football. "The pressure is on them," Ferguson said, mindful a home victory would virtually ensure Rangers' progress.

The buoyancy evident in the Rangers camp last week has been increased substantially by their convincing 3-0 victory over Celtic three days ago, although Smith was much more stoic than his captain over Rangers' ambitions against Frank Rijkaard's team. Smith pointed out the more taxing recent schedule of Barca's squad. "Every one of their players is an international player. They played two international games (within the last 10 days) and again at the weekend. Only Barry Ferguson and David Weir did that in our squad."

Smith's theory is supported by the availability issues which are afflicting Rijkaard. The hamstring injury sustained by Deco during Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Villarreal means the playmaker joins Yaya Toure, Rafael Marquez, Gianluca Zambrotta, Edmilson and Samuel Eto'o on the sidelines. Yet there will be a return for Ronaldinho, who missed the trip to El Madrigal.

Rangers' plans to deploy a combative midfield have been ruined to an extent by Brahim Hemdani's injury. Jean-Claude Darcheville is still injured so Smith is again likely to utilise Daniel Cousin as his sole attacker with Kris Boyd among the substitutes.

• Guardian Service

Rangers v Barcelona Venue: Ibrox Park Kick-off: 7.45 On TV: Setanta Sports 1, Sky Sports 2.