STEVEN GERRARD insists Rangers won't sacrifice their European ambitions to boost their domestic aspirations after earning a second Champions League spot for Scotland.

The Light Blues have produced some remarkable performances in the Europa League over the last two campaigns as they reached the group stages and then the last 16 of the competition.

Those efforts have been enough to ensure Scotland has earned another spot in the Champions League for next season.

And Gerrard knows he must combine further progression in Europe with success at home as he looks to lift the Premiership title at the third time of asking.

He said: “I respect where we're at. I don't want to play it down but at the same time don't want to play it up either.

“We know how important this season is. Every title is important.

“But in the short term, it's vital that we qualify for the group stages of Europe again, 100 per cent.

“The players have done ever so well to get the extra place in the Champions League which is very important.

“But having been here two years now, domestic competitions become even more important for myself personally and the group.

“We are as hungry as ever to put that right. But I'm not in a position where I can prioritise any competition.

“I'm the manager of Rangers and I've got a responsibility to fight for every competition and treat every one of them as importantly as the next.

“First and foremost, you have to finish in the top two. Then you have to qualify so it's a long way off.

“But for the country's sake, it's fantastic. To earn that is fantastic because it's tough.

“I'm really pleased that we've played our part in achieving that."