Gayle trained with his Rangers team-mates on Thursday

"I lasted in the Premiership for nearly seven years and, to come to a club of this size, is a dream come true.

"It is the kickstart I need again. I am 30 years old, and it is one of the last opportunities I will get to test myself in my career and see how good I can be.

Pick up a medal

"I would still like to pick up a medal and get my hands on some silverware this season even with 11 games to go.

Gayle is aware he cannot take his place for granted in the side - particularly with Rod Wallace, Ronald de Boer, Neil McCann and Michael Mols all still on the sidelines.

"I have to work for my place here. I know that I am not going to just walk into any old side and I'm here to fight for my place," said the striker.

"It is a real opportunity for myself. No disrespect to Wimbledon, but I wasn't going to be playing Champions League football there. Now I am at a place where I can try and achieve something."

Ineligible

Gayle, who signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, is ineligible for the Scottish Cup quarter-final against Dundee United on Saturday, but could make his debut alongside Tore Andre Flo in Wednesday's SPL match with Dundee.

The former Jamaican international believes his exit from Wimbledon will now help the London club work towards the future.

"There have been a few changes in the management staff. Some players have left in the last year or so, and it has been a traumatic time for the club," said Gayle.

"They have got to re-build and re-think the way ahead - so it was the right time to go, it seems.