01 June 2011 Wylde hopes to continue progress under McCoist

Gregg Wylde hopes that he can hold off the competition of any new signings and retain his place in the Rangers team next season.

The 20-year-old midfielder starred in his cameo appearances last term, and convinced Walter Smith to give him an extended run of games, including starts in the League Cup final victory and the pivotal final games.

Now Wylde hopes new manager, Ally McCoist, will offer him the same opportunities.

The Rangers midfielder said: "In training he has a laugh, but when it comes to games he's serious.

"He's a winner and the boys'll be happy to play for him. He's a great guy to work with and train with as well."

Wylde also stated that his thirst for first-team action would not be diminished by McCoist's transfer activity.

"If the manager goes out and buys players and one of them is a left midfielder then I will need to take it on the chin and fight in training to take that position myself.

"I'll not give up and hopefully I can play next season."

Wylde feels that Rangers can retain their title next season if they keep their star performers and add key individuals ahead of the new term.

He continued: "If we can keep the same players together like Jelavic, who's done really well, Naismith, Whittaker, players like that. If we add one, two or three players to the squad then we make the squad a bit stronger and he (McCoist) can do that."

If we do that then we'll have a chance next year.

The Scotland Under 21 cap took time to praise Walter Smith for the impact that he has had on the midfielder's short career so far.

Wylde said "Walter Smith did really well for me.

"I spoke to him after the Kilmarnock game and said thanks for all that he's done for me.

"He's brought my career upwards, and hopefully I can continue that will Ally McCoist and Kenny McDowall."

Meanwhile the Rangers midfielder hopes that David Weir is offered the chance to continue his Rangers career.

The Rangers youngster has hailed the influence of his 41-year-old captain, and hopes that Ally McCoist will give him the opportunity to lead Rangers in another title charge.

Wylde said: "Davie Weir has been really good with me on and off the pitch.

"He's like a second father to me. He helps me before games and looks after me.

"If he stays with the club, whether as a player or in a coaching role, it will be a massive boost for us."