NICKY CLARK reckons Rangers have found the ideal blend of youth and experience for their shot at Championship glory.

The League One champions returned to pre-season action this week as summer signings Kenny Miller and Darren McGregor joined up with the squad for the first time.

Boss Ally McCoist will take his side to the Highlands next week for a two-game tour before they head to North America for a further four fixtures.

And striker Clark is confident the Light Blues squad are shaping up well as they look to hit top gear in time for the big kick-off.

He said: "You look at boys like Lewis Macleod and Fraser Aird, who have both done really well when they have come into the side.

"But you need a mixture and Kenny, Lee McCulloch and Lee Wallace are among those who give us the right sort of balance and a good blend.

"We've had a good rest after a long season last year and we're all itching to get started ahead of what's an important year for the club.

"We've a good pre-season ahead. We went up to Brora last year and it was really good there so we expect that to be similar again.

"Our trip to North America will be a good test, too.

"There won't be any easy games and there wouldn't be any point in going there if there were.

"It's vital we are ready for the league when it starts so we'll be playing opposition who will help us prepare for that."