Speaking to the official Rangers website, midfielder Niko Kranjcar has reiterated his desire to contribute massively to Rangers as he prepares to return for a lengthy first-team absence.

What's the story?

Kranjcar has been out of action at Ibrox since October when he tore his ACL in training at Auchenhowie. Before his set-back, the Croatian had made 15 appearances for Rangers, scoring 3 goals and impressing fans in the process.

He's aiming to repay the faith supporters have shown in him over the last eight months with an improved Rangers season, after their disappointing third-placed finish in the Scottish Premiership last term.

As quoted by the Rangers website, Kranjcar said:

I feel part of that team, even though I wasn’t available for selection I do feel part of a team who underperformed largely last season. When we got back this summer we started hearing that the fans were going to support us in our first game this season in such numbers. There is a lot of appreciation and gratitude towards the support. An appreciation to play for such an important club in the world, a massive obligation to give your all for the cause and for the results of this football club.

Rangers fans may get an opportunity to see the creative midfielder in action as early as tonight when the Light Blues kick-off the season against Luxembourg outfit Progres Niederkorn. Kranjcar was named by Pedro Caixinha in his squad list submitted to UEFA for the tie.

He as more UEFA experience than most members of the Rangers squad and that could be vital given the club haven't competed in continental competition for years and years.

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