FORMER Sunderland record-buy Emerson Thome last night urged Glasgow Rangers to make his move north of the border permanent.

The Brazilian centre-back was one of a number of players released by the Black Cats earlier this summer and he is currently on trial with the Scottish champions.

But Thome, who is on tour with Alex McLeish's men in Germany, wants the chance to help Rangers claim retain their Scottish Premier League title.

And the ex-Sunderland star, who has also had spells in the English top-flight with Sheffield Wednesday and Chelsea, is convinced he is the man to fill the void left by fans' favourite at Ibrox Lorenzo Amoruso.

Club captain Amoruso completed a £1m-plus deal to Blackburn Rovers earlier this week and now McLeish is working hard to find a replacement.

Ex-Manchester United man David May is also hoping to secure a full-time deal at Rangers as is Middlesbrough target Alan Wright, but Thome is convinced he is the man to fill the breach.

Thome said: "I know Lorenzo had six great years at Rangers and the supporters really appreciated the job he did for the club.

"I am the same type of physical player and I would love to replace him. I have played English Premiership football for over five years so I know how to handle myself.

"I coped with the top guys there so hopefully I can impress the manager and get a contract. I would be really happy to join a successful team.

"They have a great bunch of players here and I didn't realise the standard would be so good when I first arrived. Now I have to show what I am capable of in matches."

Thome was close to signing for Rangers when the transfer window opened in January. But it was claimed at the time that Sunderland's demands for a nominal fee but the blocks on any deal.

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