I have had some little problems with my 2002 focus st 170 lately first being that there was a slight rubbing noise from rear of car that can only be heard at low speeds i have also noticed that when i start the car the little symbol with the car skidding dosent illuminate anymore the second thing being that the gear change is terrible clutch feels fine but engaging second gear and third from cold are very notchy and advise or help tips would be much appreciated thanks.

 

gear selector cables do stretch and could require replacment (pain in the ass job) as a minimum adjust the gear selectors, Haynes explpains how.
Your gearbox mount might be shagged so its worth checking this and upgrading the bush for a poweflex one, either way you will get a really nice slick gear change after this.
The Getrag box is bombproof so i doubt the box will be at fault.
press the traction control button, if the light does not light up its a bulb problem or do a dial sweep.