Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has denied claiming his side are on the brink of a Scottish Premiership title triumph – but insists the Ibrox outfit are ready to put up a serious fight.

Former Gers striker and TV pundit Andy Gray was quoted this week suggesting Gerrard had told him of his confidence when they met after Sunday’s friendly trouncing of Marseille. The Light Blues boss says he wouldn’t be as foolish as to make such a claim publicly ahead of the new domestic season.

Gray said Gerrard had informed him that he was “absolutely convinced there’s a title in” his Rangers side and that it could happen “this year”. “I’ve never spoken to Andy Gray about winning the league,” Gerrard said. “That’s never come out of my mouth. “I don’t think I’m naive enough to say anything like that to anyone.

What I will say if people bring up that topic up is that we are prepared to put up a fight and challenge.” Rangers improved under Gerrard’s stewardship last term, winning two of the four Glasgow derbies against Celtic, although their city rivals eventually had nine points in hand at season’s end.

The Hoops are going for a ninth successive domestic title and while not willing to set targets, Gerrard has warned his squad are to be taken very seriously. “I just don’t think there is any need before a ball is kicked to say something like that,” he added.

“We are confident, we’ve got belief. We believe we’ve progressed and the squad is a lot stronger. We want to put up the best challenge we can and I’ll back my players.

“But I won’t be making any rash or bold or naive comments before a ball is kicked. I don’t think it’s necessary.” Rangers are 3.20 to win the Scottish Premiership, while Neil Lennon’s champions are 1.33.