Wes Foderingham and Rob Kiernan extend Rangers contracts

Wes Foderingham has extended his stay at Ibrox. Picture: Kirk O'Rourke

And it is understood the Ibrox outfit are also hopeful right-back James Tavernier and last season’s top scorer Martyn Waghorn will both follow suit as talks on fresh deals continue.

Former Wigan centre-back Kiernan penned a two-year contract when he became Warburton’s first signing last summer, while Foderingham moved north on a three-year agreement when he joined a week later from Swindon.

Both men went on to play crucial roles for Mark Warburton’s team in their maiden seasons in Glasgow, helping the Light Blues reclaim their Ladbrokes Premiership slot as well as lifting the Petrofac Training Cup.

Rob Kiernan is put through his paces at Auchenhowie. Picture: Kirk O'Rourke

Foderingham was an ever-present, playing 50 games in all competitions, but will now face increased competition for his number one jersey following the arrival of ex-Burnley stopper Matt Gilks.

The summer signing will start in goal against Betfred Cup opponents Annan on Tuesday evening but Warburton has reinforced his belief in his English compatriot by rewarding Foderingham with improved terms.

Kiernan was another who performed impressively for Gers during their promotion-winning campaign, missing just five games all year. However, he too faces a tougher fight to retain his place following the arrival of former QPR veteran Clint Hill, while another defender remains on Warburton’s wishlist.

Kiernan would have been free to talk to other clubs from January had he not agreed a new deal but is now contracted to Gers until the summer of 2018.

Meanwhile, Warburton is also keen to see Tavernier and Waghorn tied down on longer contracts after reports emerged suggesting the pair had rejected the club’s opening offer.

And it is believed the Glasgow outfit are confident both deals will be pushed over the line in the coming days.

Speaking on Monday, Warburton made it clear the duo - who both scored in Saturday’s season-opening victory over Motherwell - remain central to his plans.

Warburton, who finally got his man as Joe Dodoo sealed his Ibrox move earlier this afternoon, said: “There was never any doubt about their commitment. They are two very committed players who had excellent seasons last year, and they are enjoying life.

“We are good for them and they are good for us. Players, just like in any job, want to be happy coming to their work, and they have been fantastic. They have shown their commitment to the club from day one, they contributed 43 goals between them last year, and their attitude throughout has been first class.

“This is a great place to be, and they want to be a part of it. They played a big role last season and they want to be a part of us pushing very hard.”