Former St Mirren goalkeeper Vaclav Hladky has revealed just how close he was to signing for Rangers.

The Czech stopper departed the Simple Digital Arena this season and was on the Ibrox outfit's radar after 18 months in Paisley. Gers were keen on the player but had a decision to make between signing Hladky and bringing in Jon McLaughlin from Sunderland, and they opted for the latter.

Hladky, now at Salford City, admits he was flattered by the interest shown in him by the Light Blues. He was simply unlucky that they felt McLaughlin was the better option.

"There were many opportunities, abroad as well, some big clubs were interested," he told Herald and Times Sport. "For us it was about trying to pick the right option and we spoke a lot about it so we decided to stay in Britain.

"Rangers tried to get some information but they decided on another goalie. It was between myself and him, maybe one more. It was unlucky for me but football is like that. You need luck as well as good performances so when Rangers picked another goalkeeper I had to move on to try and get another opportunity.

"It was nice because it proves your worth. I'm always happy when someone is interested in me, especially these great and big clubs. But it is what it is, maybe in future you never say never."

Celtic were also interested in Hladky as they hunted for a Fraser Forster replacement, but the custodian insists they never put a concrete offer to his representatives despite doing a background check on him while he was at Saints.

He added: "I know Celtic spoke with St Mirren and they were interested in my personality and my professionalism. But I don't think Celtic ever officially contacted my agent."