Weir relishing another year at Rangers under Smith

DAVID WEIR has revealed Walter Smith's decision to remain at the helm for another year played a big part in his own decision to stay at Rangers.

The veteran defender yesterday agreed a new one-year deal, which sees him remain with the Scottish champions for a fourth season. He said: "I am absolutely delighted to have signed for another year. Rangers is where I want to be so I am very happy.

"At the end of last season I spoke to a few people and always felt I would come back but until everything is confirmed you don't want to say too much as there is still an element of doubt. But it's nice to know that everything is sorted out and I can look forward to pre-season and preparing for the new campaign. It's great also that the manager has stayed on board for another year and that was a big factor in my decision. I have a great relationship with him and all the players will be desperate for more success in what will be his last year."

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Rangers chief executive Martin Bain insists Weir is just as crucial to the cause now at the age of 40 as he was when he arrived at Ibrox. Despite celebrating a milestone birthday in May, the centre-half proved he still has plenty to offer at the top level when he was named player of the year by both the Clydesdale Bank Premier League and the Scottish Football Writers' Association.

And Bain is thrilled he will still be at Rangers to spearhead their bid for a third successive SPL title. He said: "

It's great news for everyone because there is no doubting his importance to the team and his influence on those around him. Davie's professionalism and leadership qualities make him a superb role model and he has become a great Rangers captain.

"It's remarkable to think that Walter signed him initially in January 2007 as a stop-gap measure to steady the defence.

"Now here we are three and half years, six trophies and a European final later and Davie is still as important as ever. He did not miss a minute of our Championship campaign last season which is testimony to the terrific condition he keeps himself in."

Bain hopes fellow defender Madjid Bougherra will be playing alongside Weir next season, despite speculation he could be set to leave. Doubt also lingers over teenager Danny Wilson's future after he rejected a new deal and attracted the interest of Liverpool last season but Bain's insists there are no plans to sanction the sale of either player.

He said: "The fans are probably fed up reading about speculation over Madjid Bougherra but I can categorically state that it is not our intention to sell him. He still has two years left of his contract with us and we certainly hope he is with us for the start of the new season. Danny Wilson is also under contract for another season and although he has turned down a new contract with us, he remains our player.

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