STEVEN GERRARD is confident midfielder Ryan Jack can play a key role for Rangers in the remainder of the season after making his return to action at Ibrox.

The Scotland international made his first appearance for the Gers since the win over Aberdeen in November as he came off the bench against Ross County.

Jack would mark the occasion with a fine goal as he started and finished a neat move involving Cedric Itten and Ianis Hagi.

His performance was one of many positives for Gerrard to take as Rangers ran out 5-0 winners to extend their lead over Celtic in the Premiership title race.

Gerrard said: “I said before the game how important it is to have Jacko back for many reasons.

“Firstly because he’s a fantastic footballer, but he also drives standards with the way he trains.

“He demands things from people around him in the right way. He’s a leader and has been a captain before. I was really lucky to take on Ryan Jack — other coaches and teams have done a fantastic job with him.

“The longer we can keep him fit between now and the end of the season the better because he makes the group stronger in all kinds of different ways.

“I thought his goal optimised our performance, coming from deep in the left-back position by the corner flag.

“I’m not sure the number of passes involved but it was one of my favourite goals of the season so far.

“It will do me and the team no harm if he continues to score important goals like that.

“The key to Jacko is to keep him fit and available. We need to wrap him up at the right times and make sure he’s available.

“If he can score goals, that’s a bonus. I’m looking for the all-round performance.

“I thought him and Zungu being in midfield in a two looked really strong. There was no dip when they came on.

“It’s always a concern there could be a dip when you bring four subs on, not the quality of the player you’re introducing but them getting into the speed and rhythm of the game.

“I thought Jack and Zungu were outstanding the 30 minutes they were on pitch."