Stella relishing Rangers chance

The 21-year-old Australian midfielder - who is still awaiting international clearance - signed on transfer deadline day after a couple of weeks on trial.

Stella, who has Italian parents, began his career in the youth system in Chievo and then moved to Siena.

Although he failed to force his way into the first team, he hopes his time spent with the Serie A outfit can help him be a success at Rangers.

He told the club's official website: "I had a few problems with Siena.

"I had another year of my contract to run but we came to an agreement and I was a free player.

"There was then an opportunity to come here on trial and I couldn't say no. So I was here for two weeks and then signed a deal last Friday.

"I was with Siena for about two-and-a-half years. Initially, I signed as a youth player but in the second year I moved into the first team squad.

"Unfortunately, in Italy they don't tend to use young players so I never made my first-team debut but it was nonetheless good experience to train with a Serie A club.

"I played for the Under-21 side and then I went on loan and played in the Third Division and that was good experience too.

"But I'm delighted to be here now and hopefully I can be a success."

Red tape means Stella was unable to feature in last weekend's 5-1 win over Elgin at Ibrox, as fellow new recruit David Templeton marked his debut with a brace.

However, Stella was on target as Rangers secured a 3-1 win in a practice match against Falkirk and he is excited about being the latest Australian to join the Govan club.

He said: "I am delighted to sign for Rangers. It's a great move for me to join such a big club and I can't wait to get started.

"I knew of Craig Moore, Tony Vidmar and Kevin Muscat. I'm happy to be the latest Australian to come to Rangers."