Rangers issue statement over control of the club's badge

Rangers have reassured the club's supporters that they are still in control of their iconic badge.

The Ibrox outfit announced on Thursday they were launching a probe into claims Mike Ashley now owned the club's trademarks.

That came after it emerged documents appeared on the Government-run Intellectual Property Office (IPO) website showing the club's logos - including the 'Ready' badge and the designs for mascot Broxi Bear - were now controlled by SportsDirect.com Retail Ltd.

But the club's board now says it has clarified the matter with the Ashley's retail firm and confirmed it is still the rightful owner of the trademarks.

Ashley had been given security over the icons and logos as part of the £5m loan handed to the previous Gers board in January, but he will hand back all rights once that cash has been repaid.

In a statement, the Rangers board said: "It will not become custom and practice for the board of Rangers International Football Club to respond to every outbreak of media speculation regarding this club but because of the sensitivity of the subject at the centre of recent reporting the directors felt a response is legitimate at this time.

"It has been widely reported that the trademarks, the iconic symbols of our club, are now in the possession of Sports Direct.

"Although the trademarks are registered in Sports Direct's name, the position is not as alarming as it may first appear.

"Let us all be absolutely clear on this matter. Rangers remain the rightful and legal owners of their trademarks and interim chairman Paul Murray has clarified this position with Sports Direct. In fact, both parties will come together within the next two weeks for talks.

"Rangers supporters can be reassured that Sports Direct fully accept that all of the IP rights registered in their name will be returned to the club when the loan facility - the previous board drew down £5m - is repaid."