Record season ticket sales hailed by King

Rangers chairman Dave King has thanked the Ibrox support for breaking the club’s season ticket record.

Sales have reached 45,757 – beating last year’s previous record of 45,419 – with almost 14,000 fans signed up to the waiting list.

King – who this week was given shareholder backing to convert £14 million worth of loans he and his allies had given the club into shares – has vowed now to press ahead with plans to restore Rangers to the top of Scottish football.

He said in a statement: “Once again Rangers supporters have stepped forward and reminded us that we, the directors of this special club, are in a fortunate and privileged position to be able to work for them and with them.

“The loyalty shown by Rangers fans towards their club never ceases to amaze me and, on behalf of my fellow board members, I again express my gratitude and admiration.

“Rangers has always been a leader on and off the pitch and with the support that our fans continue to demonstrate, we will maintain that tradition.”

He added: “This is an inclusive and diverse club and we are close to announcing initiatives which will make Rangers even more special to so many more people.”

Boss Steven Gerrard said: “We need to thank the supporters. But we also need to take it as a compliment as they are obviously enjoying what they are seeing on the pitch.

“They are educated fans, they know there has been progress and I think they can sense there is something exciting brewing. That’s how we all feel.

“It is brilliant news and I think they deserve to be rewarded – the players need to realise that.

“The fans were one of the highlights for me last season. I really loved being in front of them and managing in front of them.

“I am really looking forward to being in front of them again.

“They were with us in every game through thick and thin last year and we are hoping we get the same support this year.”