Brian Laudrup warns Rangers must start spending as he rejects stinging Gio van Bronckhorst claims

The Ibrox legend has backed the boss despite a crumbling bid to retain the Premiership title.

Brian Laudrup has warned Rangers they must get the chequebook out and back Giovanni van Bronckhorst this summer.

The Ibrox legend reckons the manager deserves a chance to build his own squad this summer in the wake of a crumbling Premiership title bid.

Rangers look near-certain to give up their crown after Celtic went six points clear with victory at Ibrox on Sunday.

Van Bronckhorst has faced stern questions over a startling 12-point swing that has allowed Ange Postecoglou's team to surge clear since the New Year.

But while Laudrup understands the criticism, he insists the Dutchman has still been a "success" since replacing Steven Gerrard and deserves to be backed by the board.

"I know people look at Rangers losing two Old Firm games and dropping points elsewhere," the Dane wrote in the Daily Mail.

"But Giovanni replaced Steven Gerrard at a difficult time in the season and he's only had one transfer window to add to the team.

"He needs time and he needs to go into next season on the back of a huge transfer window.

"He needs the backing of Rangers for that. Then, I'm sure he will get things right.

"For me, he has been a success. I know some people will say they were six points ahead and now they are not near the title.

"But he has done extremely well in Europe and Rangers are in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup. Give him some time and then we can judge."