Jamie Ness delight as Rangers talisman Jelavic looks set to pledge future to Rangers

The Croatian striker had been linked with a 13 million move to Manchester United following an impressive debut season with the Scottish champions.

But, after helping Rangers clinch the SPL title, Jelavic has been quoted as saying he is going nowhere. The 4m signing netted 19 goals despite a lengthy spell on the sidelines and Ness is thrilled he still has a big part to play next term.

The midfielder said: "He is a fantastic player and I think everyone saw that in the run-in. It's a boost if he's saying he will be here next season. We want to keep him for as long as we can."

Another player who will feature in the Ally McCoist era is Sasa Papac, after the left-back penned a new deal in midweek, and Ness added: "Sasa has been fantastic, so consistent, and I don't think you'd get a better left-back in the country.

Ness himself is also hoping to have a major role next season after again being hampered by injury this term. "I just want to repay the faith Rangers have the shown in me," he said.