Rangers were busy in the transfer market prior to the deadline, also enlisting the services of Francis Jeffers and Filippo Maniero.

Bernard - who is a direct replacement for Michael Ball - admits that he is already looking forward to playing European football.

''It means a lot because Rangers is a massive club and I've never been anywhere that big so I'm very pleased to join today,'' said Bernard.

"In terms of facilities and the stadium, Rangers are massive.

"I've heard that the Rangers fans are as excited at games as Newcastle fans are and I can't wait to show what I can do and that I can do well for the team.

"I don't know a lot about the Scottish league but I knew about Rangers.

"Rangers have got ambition and I do as well. We will be playing in the Champions League and that's important for me.

"I played there before, it was really exciting, and to play there again is great.

"Rangers are big enough to be able to handle the European stage and they know what they have to do to perform.''

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