Charlie Austin dedicated the win over Sunderland to Ale Faurlin – but was delighted with the partnership he struck with Leroy Fer.

A devastating blow to Faurlin at Burton on Wednesday sees him out for almost certainly the rest of the season.

The small consolation for the Argentine midfielder was knowing Rangers have a first three points on the board courtesy of Austin’s hit 30 seconds before half time for the game’s only goal.

The smart header into his path from Fer is hopefully the shape of things to come, even if Hoops are deprived of Loic Remy, who looks certain to go to Chelsea.

Rs also tweaked the criticised  3-5-2 formation into one looking a more regular 4-4-2, and it showed as the home side held out over a nerve-jangling last 10 minutes.

“I was in the right place at the right time,” Austin said, "and we looked a more compact until today.

“We showed great team spirit, and the goal means everything and to me and my family.

“I’d like to dedicate the win to a good mate, Ale Faurlin for what happened to him during the week. It was heartbreaking.

“We spoke to Ale through messages and whatever, but we wanted this win for everybody.

“The two-week break is going to be enjoyable, and me and Leroy struck up a good relationship.

“If (after the transfer window) it’s only me and Leroy we’ll do our best as ever.”

Austin was denied a start at Tottenham last week with a hamstring strain, and admitted he had trained only once before this afrernoon.

“I knew I was going to play yesterday, and the goal, the win and 65 minutes under my belt was just what I needed.”