GIOVANNI VAN BRONCKHORST admits Cedric Itten's lack of game time in the Bundesliga was a key contributor towards his Rangers recall.

The striker returned to Ibrox last week after the champions activated a clause in his loan deal that allowed them to cut short his time with Greuther Fürth.

Itten scored twice - against Bayern Munich and Eintracht Frankfurt - during an ultimately frustrating stint on the continent.

The Swiss star fell out of favour in recent weeks and will now aim to play his part during the remainder of Rangers' Premiership title defence this term.

Van Bronckhorst said: "Of course when I came in, I also assessed the players who were on loan.

"For me, when you go on loan, it has to be beneficial for both – for the player’s development but also for the club.

"So it was obvious, when Cedric wasn’t playing a lot in Germany, I’d rather have him here with me in this squad, instead of him being in Germany without even playing.

"We had a Zoom meeting with him and Cedric was very open in the discussions, felt the same way.

"So I’m really happy he’s back now. It gives me more options up front."