Ferguson and Broadfoot have been team-mates since 2007

Kirk Broadfoot believes it would be a boost to the squad if Barry Ferguson stayed with Rangers next season.

Broadfoot said that, despite reported interest from Birmingham City, the Ibrox players were not resigned to losing their former captain.

Ferguson lost the skipper's armband after a breach of discipline whilst on international duty.

"It's up to him and if he does stay, I think every player here is happy for him to do that," said Broadfoot.

The 24-year-old Rangers defender added: "Barry's a good player, he's been a great servant to the club but if he does go, he goes in the best way possible he can by winning the double.

"With the way Barry finished the league and the reception he got from the fans, he might turn around and say, 'I want to stay'. But it's up to him."

Scotland international Broadfoot faces a long battle back to full fitness following foot surgery and is not due to return to action until November.

And he was reluctant to put a timescale on his return to the first team.

"I can't possibly say at this time," he added. "It just depends on how quickly and well my rehab goes.

"Every player wants to play in the Champions League and it's great for a club like Rangers to be back in it.

"From a player's point of view, it's the biggest stage you can play at in club football.

"Just now it's just about resting really. I'm about a month into it - it's three months without any weight bearing. It's rehab after that."

Broadfoot required hospital treatment last month following a cooking accident.

"My face is fine," he said. "I had an accident with some boiling water and a poached egg, which was pretty sore."

The former St Mirren player is out of contract next summer and his agent has been trying to secure an improved deal.

"I get the feeling that I'm wanted here," Broadfoot added. "I've been told that.

"I don't see me moving in the near future. After rehab, hopefully I can get fit and strong enough to push for a starting place again. That's what I'm looking forward to."

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