McLeish reaffirms interest in Rangers striker Kris Boyd

• Kris Boyd

The former Scotland manager was strongly linked to the striker in the January transfer window but today confirmed that he has recently been in touch with the 26-year-old's representatives.

Boyd is out of contract in the summer and has yet to sign a new deal offered by the Ibrox club.

He has attracted interest from a number of Premiership clubs and has spoken of how he believes he has the ability to perform in England's top flight.

McLeish said: "We are looking at a number of names. I really can't talk about players that are under contract because it looks tantamount to tapping up.

"But we have got a number of players we will try and pursue.

"I can talk about Boyd because he's out of contract and we have made contact with Rangers also, in terms of courtesy.

"It is ongoing. He's talking to other clubs as well. He's a free agent, he has got that luxury. We have spoken to his people since January."

The ex-Rangers manager said he believed Boyd could be a success out-with the SPL.

"If you make the chances, Kris Boyd will score, he said.

"You won't turn him into a bad finisher overnight if he comes to the Premier League.

"But it is a different league to the SPL and, the thing about Kris, is that you have to make sure the supply is right.

"Can he make the step to the Premier League in England? He can score goals. If you can give him the service he will score."