RANGERS have made a statement of intent with the signing of Scott Arfield, according to director of football Mark Allen.

The midfielder signed a four-year deal at the club after his contract at Burnley expired earlier in the week, with Allan McGregor also signing up yesterday.

Arfield cited the lure of working with Steven Gerrard as a major factor in his decision to swap the English Premier League for the Scottish Premiership.

And Allen says that the 29-year-old represents the stature of player that the club will be pursuing throughout the summer.

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“Look at the pedigree and where he has played,” Allen said.

“You look at the characteristics he stands for and the club he’s come from.

“Hard work comes before anything and that is the trait we need as we move forward. He comes with ability, experience and great character.

“When you get an opportunity to be at the table and sign players like him you take it.

“No game is won without hard work first. You have to have that ingredient as a footballer. We also need people that can handle the pressure, people that can play in the shirt. Understand what it means to play in the shirt and cope with playing in it.

“The higher level you are able to attract the more chance you have of getting players playing in front of big crowds where they are in focus.

“We have to find a certain pedigree of player to play for Rangers. I think Scott fits that bill more than adequately.”

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Allen revealed that he has been in constant contact with the new Rangers manager about potential signings, as well as discussing the futures of those already at the club.

There is a deal in principle in place with Brighton and Hove Albion over the permanent signing of Jamie Murphy, while talks will recommence soon with Nottingham Forest over the potential transfer of Jason Cummings.

But while keen to get their summer business conducted as promptly as possible, Allen insists that patience may well be key to make sure that Rangers land the quality of player they are aiming for.

“My experience has taught me that it is a long summer and you won’t always get your business done straight away, even though you might like to,” he said.

“We will endeavour to do as much as we can as soon as we can, but I won’t be pushed into a rush just to get players. They have to be the right players, they have to be the right targets with the right quality and the right characteristics.

“Whether that takes two days, five days or the whole window, we will make sure that any additions we bring in add to that level.”