MARVIN ANDREWS has vowed to fight for his place at Rangers - despite boss Alex McLeish hinting that his central defensive partnership won't change.
The big Trinidadian made his first appearance in a month when he came off the bench for the final 20 minutes of the 3-0 win over Kilmarnock at Ibrox.
He was given a rapturous welcome by the Gers legions, who are far from convinced by McLeish's Soto Kyrgiakos and Julien Rodriguez first choice pairing at the back.
The Rangers manager, though, seems to be happy with the big Greek and the Frenchman. That would suggest Andrews will be kept on the bench - but the defender is determined to battle for a starting slot.
"It's the manager's choice and he picks and chooses who he wants," Andrews said. "I am not worried and I won't get bitter about it. Everything that happens to me happens for a reason. I support every guy that goes onto the pitch and I pray they do well in every game - we are one big family at Rangers.
"Even though I am on the bench I am with them in spirit. If they win, I win. If they lose, I lose. Football is a team game and I just want Rangers to do well.
"I have done fairly well in terms of playing since I came here. Every time I pull on that jersey I love playing for the club.
"The manager has a different plan at the moment and is using different players. I'm going to bide my time, stay focused and fit, and when my chance comes I have to take it with both hands."
Andrews may get a rare start against Clyde in the CIS Insurance Cup tomorrow when Rangers begin their defence of the trophy at Ibrox. McLeish will rest key players with the vital showdown against Hearts at Tynecastle looming this Saturday.
Andrews said: "I have had a hectic time with my club and national team but I am feeling fine. There is a big, strong squad and we have a lot of games. But we need that to challenge on all fronts. That's why the manager has brought in so much cover for every position, and this is a crucial time for us so we all need to be ready when he needs us.
"Everyone has been talking about Hearts and they have started very well. But we have to concentrate on what is happening at Rangers.
"We know we need to work very hard to retain our title and this will be a big game on Sunday."
Andrews, Steven Thompson, Jose Pierre-Fanfan, Federico Nieto and Nacho Novo are all likely to start against the First Division side, with Stefan Klos also set to come in for Ronald Waterreus.
"I don't like to deviate too much from the team if it's doing well," said McLeish. "But I have some quality in the squad to make some changes, although at the same time there are guys who need games.
"I will not be experimenting because I am aware that you can fall flat on your face when you try that."