Ness pleased Jelavic plans to stay

20 May 2011 08:30

Jamie Ness has welcomed the news that team-mate Nikica Jelavic has no plans to quit Rangers.

The Croatian striker had been linked with a £13million move to Manchester United following an impressive debut season with the Scottish champions. But, after helping Rangers clinch the Clydesdale Bank Premier League title at the weekend, Jelavic has been quoted as saying he is going nowhere.

Midfielder Ness said: "He is a fantastic player and I think everyone saw that in the run-in. If we'd had him fit for the full season, things might have been different. We might have got a few more results. It's a boost if he's saying he will be here next season. We want to keep him for as long as we can."

Another player who will feature in the Ally McCoist era is Sasa Papac, after the left-back penned a new deal midweek.

Ness added: "Sasa has been fantastic, he has been so consistent for us and I don't think you'd get a better left-back in the country.

"He's been excellent and he doesn't get the praise he often deserves."

Youngster Ness is also hoping to have a major role next season after again being hampered by injury this term.

And, as he looks ahead to McCoist's first season as manager, the 20-year-old was also keen to pay tribute to Walter Smith for handing him his first-team chance.

He said: "I will always be grateful to Walter Smith for giving me my debut in the team and having the confidence in me to play me.

"Now, with Ally McCoist as the manager, I just want to do the same for him and try to repay the faith they have the shown in me this season."

Source: PA