BOSS HERE FOR THE LONG HAUL

MARK WARBURTON has reiterated his long-term commitment to Rangers — on the day he was linked with the managerial vacancy at Wigan. Upon winning the Scottish Championship title at the end of his first full season in charge, the former Brentford boss signed a contract extension until 2019. But with just four wins from ten league games this season — and a Betfred Cup semi-final defeat to Celtic — Warburton’s methodology is now under intense scrutiny. A 1-1 draw with St Johnstone on Wednesday left his side fifth in the table and saw his team booed off the park. Responding to news that he was third favourite to take charge of the Latics, however, he insisted he was determined to finish the job he had started in Glasgow. ‘No disrespect to Wigan, they are a very good club,’ said Warburton, with Manchester United Under-21 manager Warren Joyce now said to be favourite for the post. ‘But where did that come from? I have no idea. ‘It is nonsensical. We are more than committed. I hope the fans know that. And they see the project we are doing. ‘It is a results-driven business but if you are going to do a project it has to go right the way through the club, right down to the youngest academy player. If we can do that, we’ll be okay.’ Upon succeeding Stuart McCall as manager last year, Warburton claimed he had a three-year plan to restore Rangers’ fortunes. While last season’s league success saw his popularity soar, a downturn in fortunes this term has seen him come in for stern criticism. But the 54-year-old remains confident he will be given enough time to complete his Rangers project. ‘Yes — any manager has got to say that,’ he replied. ‘Every manager has got to say they hope that progress is being made and is being seen to be made. That’s really important. ‘I hope very much you can see that. The squad has changed dramatically. We’re trying to get the balance right. ‘Why were the supporters disappointed about last night’s second half? Because you’d seen a consistent uptrend in performances from Ross County through Partick Thistle, Queen of the South, Inverness away.’ Warburton believes the vast majority of fans remain on his side, saying: ‘We have spoken to enough genuine Rangers supporters that we are not listening to the five-per-cent minority. The feedback we get is positive.’