RANGERS have confirmed that Ross Wilson has left his role at Southampton to take up a job at Ibrox as Sporting Director.

The Saints' former head of football operations departed after discussions with the Light Blues hierarchy.

Wilson, 36, turned down the same role at Ibrox two years ago but has now opted to make the move.

Saints confirmed the news via social media.

A statement read: "Southampton Football Club can today confirm the departure of its Director of Football Operations, Ross Wilson, ahead of him taking up a role at Glasgow Rangers.

READ MORE: Stewart Robertson reckons Rangers are on to a winner with Ross Wilson appointment

"Wilson was appointed at Saints in 2015, initially as Director of Scouting and Recruitment before going on to oversee the club’s football operations, including its player trading, following a restructure in November 2018."

Rangers then unveiled their new director via their own social channels.

A statement from the club site said: "Rangers Football Club are today delighted to confirm Ross Wilson as the new Sporting Director.

"Ross arrives at Ibrox with a wealth of experience having spent the last four and a half years as Director of Football Operations at English Premier League side Southampton.

"The 36-year-old has over 15 years of experience in the professional football industry previously working at Watford, Huddersfield Town and Falkirk."

It comes a month after Mark Allen left his position at Gers for "family reasons".

Rangers' previous director, Allen, was vital for bringing manager Steven Gerrard to the club as well as helping with the £7million move for Ryan Kent on deadline day.

Wilson, formerly of Falkirk, Huddersfield and Watford, had a hand in bringing Virgil Van Dijk to St Mary's.