Jermain Defoe insists the healthy competition with Alfredo Morelos is just what Rangers need as they prepare for their Europa League qualifier against Progres.

Defoe, 36, watched a number of games from the Ibrox bench last season when Colombian Morelos was on fire.

However the veteran forward has enjoyed more game time already this campaign against St Joseph's as well as friendly run outs.

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And he admits having at least two strikers capable of scoring goals for the team can only help Steven Gerrard's men going forward.

Defoe said: "It's no different to any other club I've been at, to be honest.

"At any club there's always been myself and three other forwards or someone you're competing against.

"I think it's a good thing because when you're playing you have to play well, it's as simple as that.

"With Alfredo it's someone else who's going to get goals which helps the team, so I'm happy with that."

Gers square-off with Progres Niederkorn this week in the first-leg of their second-round qualifier in the Europa League.

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And Defoe says the draw of European football was a massive pull when looking at the prospect of joining the club last season.

Asked if Europe was a factor, he replied: "It was actually, I remember watching some of the games and speaking to my agent on the phone about the atmosphere.

"When you see that you want to be a part of it.

"I can't remember watching full games but I did see highlights and from the group they done well.

"So I'm looking forward to it, not just that, but the whole season."