THE latest phase in Rangers Football Club's plan to make Ibrox Stadium

one of the best football complexes in Europe opened yesterday.

Argyle House, which is part of the Govan Stand and cost #4m to build,

houses five function suites, a restaurant and 36 executive boxes.

Companies which have paid #25,000 for the privilege will be able to

entertain up to eight clients to drinks, a meal, and a bird's eye view

of the game from glass-fronted boxes.

Mr Bob Reilly, Rangers' commercial manager, chose a phrase fitting the

surroundings when he said that his clients were ''over the moon'' about

the standard of catering and accommodation in the suites and boxes.

He added: ''We are trying to build the best team and the best

facilities for the best supporters in the land. We believe we are

getting there despite recent disappointing results.''

The executive boxes, which stretch the full length of the pitch, all

have been booked and there is a waiting list.

Mr Reilly also disclosed that there have been 15 firm bookings for the

24 boxes which will be created in the next stage of the development in

the main stand at Ibrox.

As well as the corporate facilities, Argyle House also provides two

floors of offices, one taken up by Scottish Brewers, and a restaurant

which is open to the public, as well as space for special functions such

as weddings, christenings and supporters' functions.

Mr John Greig, public relations officer at Ibrox, said: ''Argyle House

is a continuation of investment in the stadium, bringing Rangers

Football Club closer to the fans seven days a week.

''In addition, the redevelopment is sound commercial judgment, with

the outlay being recouped within two to three years and thereafter

generating income for further investment in players and facilities.''