Wednesday 31 January 2018 08:43, UK
David Bates is keeping his focus firmly on the pitch and leaving his Rangers future at the hands of his representatives.
The 21-year-old's contract with Rangers runs out in the summer and he is going to let his football do the talking as he awaits a new contract offer.
"I'm enjoying my football," Bates said. "These things take care of themselves, as long as I'm playing on the football pitch.
"That's why you have got representatives, they can take care of stuff off the pitch and we do our stuff on it.
"I would hope to get something sorted out with Rangers. Obviously it's up to the club and if they can speak to my representatives then that would be great."
Bates is keen to agree a new contract with his current club, however Championship side Sunderland were recently credited with an interest in the centre-back.
He has made six appearances for Graeme Murty's side so far this season and impressed when he came off the bench in Rangers goalless clash with top of the league Celtic, before the winter break.
Bates has also started in Rangers victories against Aberdeen and Ross County this season, but is still awaiting a decision on his future at the club.
"I've not heard anything. My representative will do his stuff off the pitch and I'll do my stuff on it.
"The last two games I think I have played pretty well. I am building more confidence and feel more relaxed on the pitch.
"Obviously the gaffer has come in and with the winter break he has put his stamp on how he wants us to play.
"It's a bit more clear, especially with building out from the back. So everyone is on the same page now, so it's a lot easier."
Bates' next priority is the Scottish Cup fourth-round tie against Fraserburgh at Bellslea Park and he knows first hand that Rangers must not take the Highland League side lightly.
"They won't get anything like it this season, they will all be up for it, it will be like a cup final to them. They will make it as hard as possible for us," Bates aid.
"When I was at Raith, Rangers came to Stark's Park and the atmosphere in the changing room was crazy.
"I don't know how they will play and I have never seen the pitch but we need to go up there with a good attitude and try to play the way we did against Aberdeen, especially the first 70 minutes, and Ross County, especially the first half."
