PEDRO Caixinha, the Rangers manager, has challenged Barrie McKay, the winger who has rejected the initial offer of a new contract, to contribute more to his team.

Caixinha, who took over from Mark Warburton last month, is currently assessing the squad which he inherited and deciding which out-of-contract players to offer extensions to this summer.

The Portuguese coach has been impressed with McKay, who made his debut for Scotland against France last summer, and predicted he can play at the very highest level.

However, the 46-year-old believes the forward, who was dropped to the bench for the Ladbrokes Premiership match against Aberdeen at Pittodrie, can be more influential.

“Barrie McKay is my boy and I want to keep him and raise him to another level,” said Caixinha. “So far he has been perfect for me. I like all my players. Do you remember my statement when I arrived? Best players, best squad. We have no doubt that he is a fantastic player, with his qualities and his skills.”

“But I want more than just a skilful player. I want him to be more aggressive, to see the game differently, to be more proactive and to give more to the collective side.”