NICKY CLARK believes it is clear to see that Rangers are the best team in the Ladbrokes Championship despite their recent defeat at Easter Road.
Hibernian put themselves back in the mix in the title race by securing a hard-fought 2-1 win over Mark Warburton's side last weekend and have been gathering a head of steam in the wake of a disappointing start to the campaign.
Clark remains confident in his own side's abilities, though. Hibernian are challengers to be reckoned with, of course, but the striker believes the greater quality resides at Ibrox.
"You wouldn't be here if you didn't think you were at the best club," said Clark. "I think we are the best.
"They will be there or thereabouts. I think they are probably the next best team in the league after us.
"The gaffer has got a right good squad here, though, and all the boys are gelling well together. You can see that in the games."
Clark was given a rare start at Easter Road and replaced by Nathan Oduwa just before the hour-mark.
Being included in the starting 11 for such an important fixture has given him hope at an important time, though. He is in the final year of his current contract and eager to prove himself worthy of an extension as Rangers push for a return to the top flight.
"It's a big season for me," he said. "I want to push on and get a new contract.
"Every player wants to play at the highest level. It would be great to do that.
"There has been nothing yet on a contract, though. Nothing at all. I'm sure that will come at some stage in the next few weeks.
"It's down to me to prove I'm worthy of a new contract."
Clark insists he is thriving under the regime Warburton has put in place at the club with regards to diet and sports science and is delighted with the relationship he has established with Craig Flannigan, the new Head of Performance and Preparation.
"Even from the start of this season, I feel a million times better," he said.
"Craig Flannigan has come in and given us all a plan. I worked with Flanny at Queen of the South for a few years, so I know what he is all about and he is really good at his job."
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