The boyhood Gers fan, who signed a 12-month deal this week, has bolstered Steven Gerrard’s options in defence.

And the 38-year-old Northern Irish centre back posted a picture on his social media account of himself draped in Rangers regalia as a baby with the caption: “Dreams really do come true” followed by a bear emoji.

Speaking to Rangers TV after sealing his dream move to Ibrox, McAuley said: “It’s massive for me personally. My family support the club and me myself as well.

“The street I was born on, the kerbs are painted red, white and blue so to get the opportunity to play for this famous club is amazing.

“I’m delighted to be here. I feel very honoured to be here and privileged as well. “I have been here on a European night and the atmosphere is fantastic and electric, and it will be something I really look forward to.

“I feel there is a chance to win things here and a chance to be a part of something special. “I’ve played a lot of games in the Premier League, but this club to me is as big as, if not even bigger than, a lot of the clubs in England.

“You see the support – it’s there every week. This is a massive club and for me, to be given the chance to be here, I feel really privileged.”

Rangers new boy Gareth McAuley delights fans with '˜dream move' photo