Rangers pair Jason Holt and Andy Halliday sign new and improved deals

The midfield duo have played key roles for Mark Warburton as his side have taken charge of the Ladbrokes Championship title race.

Now the pair - both originally signed after impressing during pre-season trials - have been repaid with contracts which tie them to the Light Blues until the summer of 2020.

Boyhood Gers supporter Halliday grew up just yards from Ibrox and later joined the club’s youth ranks.

He was left distraught, though, when released by his heroes aged 15.

However, after stints with Livingston, Middlesbrough and Bradford, the 24-year-old won a return to the club when Warburton handed him a two-year deal, with the option of a third, in the summer.

Halliday has so far missed just one game, netting five times.

Former Hearts youngster Holt was handed a three-year contract by Warburton after he also made the most of his pre-season audition.

The 22-year-old has featured in 25 games already this season, bagging nine goals from midfield - including a double in last month’s top-of-the-table showdown with Hibs.

Rangers boss Warburton said: “We’ve been delighted with them and I think it’s right that the club recognises that and responds.

“They are young players who have come in and have been challenged with handling the weight of expectation and they have dealt with that and delivered.

“You just need to look at Jason in terms of his goals and Andy and in terms of his positioning.

“If we can have a process in place which allows us to move swiftly when we have to, then I think it’s good for everyone concerned.

“They fully deserve their new contracts and now their jobs are to deliver the performances to merit their next contract.”

Gers are also hopeful winger Barrie McKay will also sign an extension in the coming days.