Rangers captain Steven Davis insists every single player is desperate to see Nikica Jelavic remain at Ibrox.

But he believes the Scottish champions can retain the Scottish Premier League title even if their top goalscorer does head for the exit door this month.

Jelavic has already been the subject of a failed bid from West Ham earlier this week and has also reportedly attracted the interest of Liverpool, West Brom, Fulham and QPR.

Davis said: "Everybody knows the important role he plays within the team, he's a top quality player.

"From the players' point of view, and I'm sure the manager's as well, we are desperate to keep him.

"But that may be taken out of the manager's hands - I don't know."

Asked if Rangers can win the SPL title without Jelavic, Davis said: "I don't see why not.

"It's happened before when we have lost our top goalscorer.

"Kenny Miller left at a difficult time last year and Jela stepped up to the plate.

"It maybe gives somebody else an opportunity but obviously we don't want to lose him.

"The best case scenario would be to keep him here and add to the squad as well."

Davis has been handed the captain's armband on a permanent basis following the departure of veteran defender David Weir last week.

The Northern Irishman said: "I'm really proud. I grew up as a Rangers fan and even to get the chance to play for the club is a big thing.

"To captain the side is a great honour.

"I've got big boots to fill. Davie was a great captain on and off the pitch but it's something I'm looking forward to.

"I just try to lead by example with my performances on the pitch and I'm also here to help the younger players as well.

"There is always pressure no matter what on any player at a club the size of Rangers.

"There will be a bit more responsibility that comes with the captaincy but hopefully it's something I'll relish and hopefully I can have a bit of success with it as well."

Rangers trail Celtic by four points and, with their rivals in Scottish Communities League Cup action this weekend, will be aiming for a victory over Hibernian on Saturday in a bid to bridge the gap.

Davis said: "We can't really afford to drop too many more points between now and the end of the season. It's important we get back to winning ways on Saturday."