Mclaughlin signed for No 1 jersey fight

Steven Gerrard has stressed that Jon Mclaughlin has signed for Rangers to challenge Allan Mcgregor for the goalkeeper’s jersey.

The 32-year-old Scotland international has agreed a two-year deal after rejecting a late offer from Sunderland to extend his contract.

The former Bradford and Burton Albion player made 90 appearances in two seasons with Sunderland after an impressive campaign with Hearts.

Rangers were looking for a new keeper following the departures of Wes Foderingham and Jak Alnwick.

Mcgregor played 48 times in last season’s truncated campaign but is now 38 and Mclaughlin offers serious competition after making around 400 appearances during his career.

Gerrard said: “He brings vast experience. We have tracked Jon for a long time now.

“There is obviously one position available and it’s a shootout to see who is in the best form. Allan Mcgregor has been terrific for me over the couple of years, really consistent. Jon is aware of that but wants to come in and put as much pressure on him as he can.”

Mclaughlin has made two Scotland appearances, his most recent one coming in a 6-0 win over San Marino in October last year.

With Mcgregor now retired from international football and Craig Gordon falling out of favour at Celtic last season, Mclaughlin had emerged as the main contender to David Marshall’s jersey.

Speaking to Rangers TV, Mclaughlin said: “It’s a very proud moment for myself and for the family. It is great to be back up here in Scotland and we are very proud to have made the deal happen and I am really looking forward to now getting back to football and starting my next chapter here with an amazing football club.”