RANGERS boss Ally McCoist has admitted he wasn't surprised when details of his new £750,000 pay deal were made public this week.

The Ibrox club confirmed that McCoist had resigned as manager in a statement to the AIM Stock Exchange on

Monday morning.

And the brief announcement also revealed that the 52-year-old's "salary will increase significantly" during his 12-month notice period.

In a remark that hinted at his unhappiness at how Rangers had conducted business at times during his tenure, he stressed that he hadn't been taken him aback when that information was released.

He said: "Did it disappoint me that my wages were highlighted?

"When I became the first Rangers manager in history to have his salary put in the accounts that made me realise that probably nothing should shock me. It didn't disappoint me because it didn't surprise me.

"Was it unnecessary? That would be the opinion of many, yes. If I said it was unnecessary that would give the impression I was upset about it. But I'm not.

"I can't gauge everybody's opinion. People will have their own opinion of it and see it for what it is.

"But it's past now. But put it this way, I was surprised more when my salary was put in the Rangers accounts.

"It wasn't in again this year. It's probably the only place it hasn't appeared. But I have nothing to hide, I have nothing to be ashamed of. It is what it is."

McCoist's annual wage has been a constant source of controversy during his difficult three-and-a-half years as Rangers manager.

The legendary striker worked for free during administration and took a bumper pay cut back in January when it emerged the club was facing further financial difficulties.

He said: "I worked for nothing for months. I decided to take a 45% cut and I then took a 40% cut. I'm not saying 'a big pat on the back for Ally' but there's a wee bit more to it than meets the eye.

"When I signed my contract for Rangers there was no negotiation. Martin Bain [former chief executive] put a contract down and I took a pen and signed it.

"I was just delighted I was getting the job so that's what I did. During the administration period I worked for nothing, so there are other factors that should be taken into account as well.

"I can understand different views and opinions on it, but there's a wee bit more to it."

Meanwhile, McCoist has stressed he expects to remain in charge for the full duration of his notice period - and had spoken to new chief executive Derek Llambias.

Former Newcastle United supremo Llambias was confirmed as Graham Wallace's successor in a Stock Exchange statement yesterday.

Speculation has been rife that McCoist, who met with senior club officials on Wednesday, will be paid off and a permanent replacement will be brought in.

He said: "I spoke to him [Llambias] before training. I congratulated him on his new role which he is looking forward to.

"We'll hopefully get a chance to sit down in the not too distant future to discuss plans for the team and for January, all that sort of stuff."