STEPHEN KELLY is confident he can continue to catch the eye of boss Steven Gerrard as he attempts to stake his claim for a Rangers berth this term.

The midfielder produced a Man of the Match winning performance as the champions were held to a goalless draw by Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.

And he was then given the final few minutes of the terrific 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Ibrox as Rangers rounded off their pre-season schedule in style.

Kelly has spent time on loan at Ayr United and Ross County in the last two seasons as he has proven his ability and mentality away from Ibrox.

He faces stiff competition for a place in Gerrard’s ranks this season as Rangers attempt to defend their Premiership title and improve and impress on the continent once again.

But the 21-year-old is determined to make the most of any opportunity he is given following his superb showing against the Seagulls on Saturday.

Kelly told RangersTV: “It has been brilliant. Playing [with] different types of players, different cultures of players, it helps me.

“If I can get in amongst it and feel at home with them, that is only going to benefit me.

“I think last year improved me a lot and I probably realise that a lot more now. I think any minutes that you get, you are always going to improve.

“Of course [I want to be in the manager’s thoughts]. That is what I have tried to do ever since I have come back in for the first day of training.

“Just tried to do as well as I can every day, maximum effort every day. But also trying to bring quality as well.

“I feel that I am starting to settle in as well. Hopefully just more of the same.”