FORMER Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic thinks Rangers could end the day with 'one hand on the title' - if they can leave Pittodrie with all three points.

Steven Gerrard's side face Aberdeen on Premiership duty this afternoon, where a win would stretch the Ibrox club's lead over Celtic at the top of the table to 22 points - albeit having played an additional four games.

Jelavic - who won a league and League Cup double with the Govan outfit in the 2010/11 campaign - reckons a win over Derek McInnes' men this afternoon would provide a huge morale boost to his old side, but warned that it will not be easy.

Glasgow Times:

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He told the Sunday Mail: "If we beat Aberdeen, Rangers will be close to that first title in 10 years, which is incredible.

"It’s such an important game. It doesn’t matter that we are 19 points ahead in the table.

"We have to take every game seriously until this title is secured.

"Hopefully we can win on Sunday and finally put one hand on the trophy.

"In these games against Aberdeen, the players shouldn’t need any special motivation.

"Historically for Rangers it’s always difficult going to Aberdeen.

"They make it hard for you and we all know about the rivalry between the two clubs. But it was amazing to play those types of games.

Glasgow Times:

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"Because you know it’s going to be tough, you know you have to prepare properly and give 100 percent to win.

"And you know if you beat them there it will be a fantastic feeling."