Leeds United head coach and boyhood Celtic fan Steve Evans has reassured Rangers they will get promoted this season even after missing out on midfielder Toumani Diagouraga.
The 28-year-old was identified by Rangers boss Mark Warburton as a key target in this month's transfer window, but Leeds have won the race for Diagouraga, signing him from Brentford on a contract until the summer of 2018.
Evans feels in Diagouraga he has a player in the mould of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira.
The Scot is a die hard Celtic fan, but still expects to see Rangers back in the top flight next season, even without Diagouraga.
Speaking to Scottish broadcaster STV, Evans said: "I'm privileged to be from Glasgow. I don’t hide where my allegiance lies and my love and affection is for the team across the city.
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"I spoke to Mark when he was appointed [Rangers manager] and told him what to expect.
"They’ll be back in top league, no doubt", he added.
Rangers, who have signed four players this month, although two of them in the shape of Accrington Stanley duo Josh Windass and Matt Crooks will only arrive next summer, are sat on top of the Scottish Championship table and five points clear.
Warburton's men are red hot favourites to earn promotion to the Premiership and set up regular Old Firm derby clashes with rivals Celtic from next season.
