The Rangers fans in the Transfer Tavern today will be feeling optimistic about the season ahead.

It has been a pretty good two years for Rangers with promotion back to the Scottish first division being followed by a respectable third place, on their first time of asking.

However, their old firm rivals, Celtic still beat them to the punch by winning the league title and Portuguese manager, Pedro Caixinha will be keen to make sure this season’s title race is a lot closer.

Whilst it would be unfair to say that the Rangers squad underperformed last season, there are still a few players who would benefit from impressing their manager during pre-season in an attempt to nail down a first team spot.

Having already brought in plenty of players to compete with last season’s squad, the nerves will be felt by all on the Rangers books if they think their spot could be taken by a new face in the side.

On that note, here are TWO Rangers players who seriously need to impress during pre-season….

Jason Holt

Jason Holt had an ok season during the 2016/17 campaign, nothing special but a solid player throughout.

However, three central midfielders have already been signed this season meaning Holt’s position in the first team could be under threat.

More of a defensive minded player thant some of the new signings in the middle of the park.

He’ll still need to impress in pre-season to give Pedro Caixinha something to think about.

David Bates

Only making seven appearances last season, David Bates could see that small number increase even further as two new centre backs have been brought into the club.

With plenty of solid defensive options at the club, the 20-year-old defender will need to seriously impress his boss during pre-season to give himself any chance of featuring heavily in the first team next season.

If he doesn’t take his chance, he may find himself departing the club before too long.

What do you think Rangers fans? Let us know down below.