GIOVANNI VAN BRONCKHORST admits he is 'really happy' for John Lundstram after seeing the midfielder make the most of his chance to impress against Hearts and Hibernian.

Lundstram struggled for game time during the first weeks of Van Bronckhorst's Ibrox reign and faced increased competition for a spot following the signings of James Sands and Aaron Ramsey.

The Scouser has produced two accomplished showings in recent days, however, as Rangers have completed an Edinburgh double to bounce back from their Old Firm defeat at Parkhead.

And Van Bronckhorst has been pleased with the way in which Lundstram has risen to the challenge as attentions turn to the Scottish Cup clash with Annan Athletic this weekend.

Van Bronckhorst said: "He has done really well. I am really happy for John because it is not easy to be not playing and be on the bench.

"Every player wants to play but the response he had and the performance he had in the last two games, for me that is what you want if you need a player and you put him in to perform.

"I am really happy for John with the way he is playing and to give his good performances for the team.

"The competition is really hard at the moment because we have got many players available now, not only in midfield but up front. That is good for me.

"But we just have to continue and everyone who is in the team, the first eleven who starts, they have to be ready. That is what you want as a coach."