Madjid Bougherra insists Walter Smith signing a contract and the prospect of another season of Champions League football has made him want to stay at Rangers next season.
It has been claimed that Algeria defender Bougherra turned down an extension to his contract, which still has two years to run, and had also demanded a pay rise. But despite reports this will lead to him being sold this summer, the 27-year-old former Charlton man expects to be back in pre-season training after the World Cup.
Bougherra told the Scottish Sun: "Walter deserves his contract. After working for months without a deal, people can't say he's at Rangers just for the money. He is staying as he loves the club and everything the club has achieved in the past three years is down to him."
He added: "This will be his last season but he has the strength and personality to build one more team and win the title again.
"Walter signing his contract is better for me. He knows my style, he knows my game and he's been great with me.
"I am happy to stay and I will give Rangers 200%. I have two years left on my contract and I have not asked to negotiate.
"I have never asked for a contract and I plan to be back for pre-season training after the World Cup."
Barcelona, Liverpool, Galatasaray, Panathinaikos and Newcastle have all been linked with Bougherra.
But he said: "I would prefer to stay and win trophies and play in the Champions League with Rangers than go to a club which can't give me these things."
Source: PA
