RANGERS have clinched an extended shirt sponsorship deal with 32Red ahead of their Premiership title defence and return to the Champions League next term.

The new multi-year arrangement will see the partnership between Rangers and 32Red - which started seven years ago - become one of the longest-running deals in British football.

As part of the contract, 32Red will continue to host their 'Team Talk' initiative that uses Rangers as a platform for supporters to share their stories and discuss their mental health.

Boss Steven Gerrard took part in a Zoom call with fans last week as they spoke of their experiences during lockdown and explained how Team Talk had offered them support throughout the Covid pandemic.

Gerrard said: “Rangers and 32Red have been on a long journey together and I am delighted that our winning partnership is continuing.

"I was particularly heartened to hear that the vital Team Talk initiative will be continuing as a result of the new agreement.

“I recently took part in a really positive session and it is abundantly clear to me how much of a support network Team Talk provides to our fans.

"Today’s announcement is really positive news for everyone connected to the club.”

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The 32Red logo will appear on Rangers' home and away kits next season as Gerrard's side look to regain their Premiership title, with the logo of Unibet set to appear on the third kit.

That brand will also be used on all kits in European competition as Rangers gear up for a crack at the Champions League qualifiers this summer following three impressive Europa League campaigns.

James Bisgrove, Commercial and Marketing Director, said: “I am delighted that the club and 32Red have agreed to extend the partnership, which is excellent news for the continued commercial growth of the club.

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"32Red have supported our club for many years of our journey back to the pinnacle of Scottish football and our historic 55th league title.

“They’ve been part of our journey both on the pitch and in the community and we are grateful for their fantastic support.

The Herald: Rangers manager Steven Gerrard

"They are long-term partners and we hope to continue the successful, winning, relationship for many years to come.

“As we embark on our historic 150th anniversary season and looking forward to UEFA Champions League football at Ibrox, it will be symbolic of the strength of our partnership that 32Red and Unibet will be on the front of our shirts’’

Rangers first agreed a sponsorship deal with 32Red ahead of their Championship winning campaign under the guidance of Mark Warburton as they completed their climb back to the top flight of Scottish football.

Gerrard has now clinched a historic 55th league title this term and the association with the Kindred Group will continue in the coming seasons.

Neil Banbury, UK General Manager, Kindred Group, said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our longstanding partnership with SPFL Champions Rangers – it’s been quite a journey over the last decade and we’re proud to have played our part in that.

"It is a hugely exciting time to be involved with the club, as this current season has shown already.

"More widely, we remain committed to reinventing the sports sponsorship model, so that it benefits the wider community.

"That is why as part of this extended agreement with the club we will be renewing our support for the vital men’s mental health initiative, Team Talk.”