DAVE KING believes the Ibrox crowd have reaffirmed their faith in the Rangers board after season ticket sales broke through the 40,000 barrier.

The Gers chairman had set his sights on achieving a new record for briefs this term as Mark Warburton’s side return to the Premiership.

Many supporters are confident that Rangers can challenge for the top flight title in the coming months and Warburton has brought in the likes of Joey Barton and Niko Kranjcar to add strength and depth to his Light Blues ranks.

And King knows everyone at Ibrox now has to live up to the expectations from the stands as Rangers look forward to a Premiership campaign after four seasons in the lower leagues.

He said: “This response is hugely encouraging. Of course all of us in the boardroom and the many departments throughout Rangers are well aware of the bond between the fans and their Club but to break through the 40,000 ceiling so soon after tickets went on public sale is truly amazing.

“I cannot speak highly enough of our fans. The support has again been fantastic and is further proof that the fans approve of the work being done behind the scenes and all around the Club.

“However, it also means that every one of us, from our maintenance men, kit ladies and all the way through to the Ibrox boardroom and manager’s office at Auchenhowie has a duty to meet the demands and expectations of our fans and deliver success. They are our most important asset and we must not fail them.

“On behalf of the Board, management, players and staff I would like to thank everyone for this massive show of support. Our fans are close to setting a new mark and everyone at the Club should take our lead from them and always try to do the same.”