Edu keen to focus on title charge

Maurice Edu says he will not let contract talks distract him as he focuses on helping Rangers to Scottish Premier League title glory. The Ibrox club's manager, Ally McCoist, revealed this week he had opened talks with the American midfielder's agent about a new deal. The 25-year-old still has 18 months left on his current contract and while admitting he is flattered at his manager's faith in him, the USA international says he is more concerned with matters on the park. "It's always good news to hear that the club is pleased with the way you've been playing and the progress you've made," Edu said. "I have worked with the management team and staff here for four years now. It's good to have positive feedback and know that you're wanted. I just focus on playing. I know I have 18 months left. I have been pleased with the way things have been going. I'm just focused on getting wins in a bid to make it four in a row." The Glasgow giants take on struggling Inverness Caledonian Thistle at Ibrox on Saturday hoping to maintain their four-point advantage over Old Firm rivals Celtic. At one time the Gers held a 12-point advantage over their rivals but after dropping points to St Johnstone and Kilmarnock saw the Hoops close the gap. But Edu says he is confident Rangers can handle the pressure of having Neil Lennon's side breathing down their necks as the title race heats up. "It's a difficult situation to be in," Edu added. "We're the top of the table and everyone is gunning for us. "But it's a position we welcome, we'd rather than be there than chasing the title. Early on this season we playing a bit better but right now we are still finding ways to get results." Bhoys under pressure A win for McCoist's side could heap the pressure on Celtic, who are away to St Johnstone on Sunday. Neil Lennon's side have won their last six league matches and his squad has been boosted by a host of players returning from injury in recent weeks. The Celtic boss will have Kelvin Wilson and Scott Brown back after long layoffs while Emilio Izzaguirre is in full training following an ankle break earlier in the season. St Johnstone have lost their last two games but will be full of confidence after picking up a win at Parkhead earlier in the season. Elsewhere, third-placed Motherwell welcome St Mirren to Fir Park while Kilmarnock host Dundee United at Rugby Park. Aberdeen, who are just three points above the relegation zone, will hope to build on their midweek win over St Johnstone when fellow strugglers Hibernian visit Pittodrie. After finally receiving their November salaries a month late the Hearts players prepare to take on bottom of the league Dunfermline, who have won just once in the past 13 games.