Rangers defender Rob Kiernan reveals Champions League ambitions

Rangers defender Rob Kiernan has targeted a Champions League return and believes they can challenge Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

The Glasgow giants will make their top-flight comeback next season after a four-year exile, having won the Championship.

They were voted out of the SPL in 2012 following a financial meltdown and have not reached the group stages of the Champions League since 2010.

Victory against Hibernian in next month's Scottish Cup final will give them a route to the Europa League qualifiers, but former Wigan and Watford man Kiernan feels Mark Warburton's side can return to the European elite.

"Definitely, but in terms of next season it's going to be difficult," said the former Republic of Ireland U21 international, ahead of Sundays trip to St Mirren.

"It's all right to perform against Celtic in a one-off game, but you have got to do that every week. I'm not saying we'll breeze it, but the Champions League is an aim and a realistic one.

"We have to have belief in ourselves, why can't we go and play in Europe? It's a challenge and you've got to challenge yourself."

Since Rangers' demotion, Celtic have won three titles and are on course to clinch another, even though boss Ronny Deila is set to leave, with Neil Lennon, Malky Mackay and David Moyes linked as replacements.

Rangers beat Celtic in the Scottish Cup semi-final on penalties this month as the teams prepare to duel in the top flight again.

And Kiernan is keen to push their rivals after Rangers' long journey back from the Third Division.

"They have international players of great quality, so if they get a manager in who wants to play the right way they are definitely going to be a big threat," added Kiernan.

"It's going to be interesting. We're not there yet but we're hot on their heels."