RANGERS boss Mark Warburton insists Barrie McKay and Rob Kiernan have what it takes to go on to become stars at the highest level of the game.

The Ibrox manager has defended Kiernan against his critics and insisted the centre-back brought in from Wigan Athletic in the summer can go on to make a career for himself in the Barclays Premier League in England.

He sees similar potential in winger McKay and has challenged him to push on and

“He has everything in the locker,” stated Warburton. “Like Rob, if he wants to, he has got the opportunity to go on and play at the very, very highest level.

“He has confidence with both feet and is technically first-class. I just want Barry to recognise the opportunity that he has got.

“I don’t mean that in a bad way. He needs to know that he must strive every day to be better. He’s got everything. He’s rapid, he’s strong and he just turned 21 over Christmas.”

Warburton has clearly been irked by questions raised over Kiernan and the Rangers defence, in general, and has detailed what he believes the 25-year-old can achieve in the future.

“He has that desire to become better and I think Rob Kiernan is capable of going and playing in the English Premier League,” he stated.

“David Weir has played at that highest level and thinks the same as I do.

“Rob is both technically outstanding and physically outstanding at six foot three.

“The work that he does at Murray Park day in and day out is fantastic. He has everything.

“I haven’t said it up until now, but I’ve been amazed that anyone would ever have been critical of Rob.

“I think he has been absolutely outstanding for us. His quality of pass, his strength, his desire has been absolutely first class for us.”

“I can’t speak highly enough of him and I’m amazed that anyone would even question Rob Kiernan.

“Tuesday was a day off for the players and Rob is one of many who came in to do their work and their cool down.

“For me, he has come in here with a real focus and a real hunger to do well for the club and that has been displayed every time that he has pulled on the shirt this season.”

“I look forward to seeing Rob going from strength to strength and I’ve no doubt that he will do.”