ALLY McCOIST today predicted that professional pride will ensure his Rangers players do not switch off in the remainder of the SPFL League One campaign.

McCoist's side have stormed 17 points clear of their nearest rivals Dunfermline at the top of the table with three consecutive victories away from home.

But the Light Blues boss has no concerns whatsoever that his charges will lose focus as a result of the title being effectively sewn up.

He said: "I think the players have a pride in their performance as professionals. That will be their motivation from now on. They have to get motivated in every game no matter what their position in the league is and I am sure they will continue to do that.

"There will always be a lot of Rangers fans going to see our games so they owe it to them to keep playing well. The fans have been fantastic.

"Having that sort of backing will spur the players on - I have absolutely no doubt about that. Anyway, nobody is taking anything for granted in the league.

"We haven't won anything yet and until we do we will keep on going and treat every team that we play with total respect.

"I was in the position where you have been way out in front in the title race myself as a player and know you have to concentrate on every game."

McCoist, though, has admitted that he may throw kids into his side when they do complete the second stage of "The Journey" and win promotion.

The Ibrox club's hopes of recording a fabled "Perfect Season" ended when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Stranraer at home on Boxing Day.

So there is no winning record to maintain - and that could mean Murray Park kids being given first-team experience in meaningless matches.

McCoist said: "If and when we win the league then we will be able to bring in some of the younger lads and give them a run in the team.

"I have been delighted with how the young lads have done again this season.

"Fraser Aird has done very well in recent weeks as has Robbie Crawford. And Lewis Macleod has been outstanding.

"We have certainly got some more boys coming through the ranks who are more than capable of playing in the first team.

"I am sure they will keep getting better and will push for a place in the side. They may get their chance later on in the season.

"But that is for further down the line. At the moment, we are all concentrating on winning the league.

"We still have a lot of games to play in order to do that."