JOE ARIBO reckons there were reasons to be optimistic for Rangers as they returned to winning ways in the Premiership with victory over Ross County.

The midfielder opened the scoring for Steven Gerrard's side with a lovely strike from the edge of the area before Connor Goldson doubled the lead just minutes later.

Goals from Alfredo Morelos and Scott Arfield were enough to ensure a Harry Clarke effort and Jordan White penalty didn't cost the champions in Dingwall.

And Aribo was encouraged with a more complete performance from Rangers as attentions turn to the Europa League clash with Alashkert on Thursday night.

Aribo told RangersTV: "The boys are buzzing. We knew what we had to do today and put in a strong performance. We are definitely happy that we were able to do that.

"I have [scored a goal like that before]. I did it last season at home, it was a similar position and similar finish.

"I think when we come to places like this, we need to start fast and be on top. We just needed that breakthrough and that goal so it was massive. We needed it to get into our stride.

"We wanted to score more goals and keep a clean sheet, of course, but it was good to see the rhythm, the passes, there was a lot of interchange today between the midfield and strikers. That is what we need in the upcoming games.

"It is massive [to have that desire]. When you have subs coming off the bench and giving their all, it is good to see.

"It is a squad game, not just the starting eleven. Everyone has to play their part and it is massive. It is amazing to see.

"We need to do everything we can to be the best that we can be. We can’t make any excuses for what is to come so we need to make sure we are ready to go."