Rangers continued their preparations for the upcoming campaign with another decent workout against Premier League opposition in Brighton.

On a scorching Saturday evening in Govan, Steven Gerrard's men dominated for large spells but couldn't find a way through the Seagulls backline with the scoreline ending 0-0.

With Real Madrid next up at Ibrox later today, what were the main takeaways from yesterday's contest?

THE RETURN OF FANS

It was an absolute joy to behold supporters in and around the ground once again.

Having arrived at Ibrox two hours before kick-off I went for a wander down Edmiston Drive and it was a delight to see supporters mingling again and making their way towards the stadium.

Having been lucky enough to cover football during the pandemic last season, there are little things you previously took for granted - the programme sellers, the waft of sizzling burgers from the vans and guys selling scarves, flags and badges - this really brought it home that football as we know it is slowly but surely returning.

For many, it was the first time they'll have set foot inside the stadium for around 16 months and the first time to show their appreciation for this special group of players.

And show their appreciation they did - the noise generated by only 8,500 fans was incredible.

They were in full voice throughout and even Shane Duffy was welcomed back to Ibrox with the sort of reception usually afforded to club legends.

There was a buzz in the air when his name was included in the starting line up and the noise ramped up tenfold when he emerged from the tunnel to do his warm-up.

It puzzled me as to why Brighton would've put the former Celtic loanee through the trauma of playing in such a game, given the feeling Rangers fans have towards him - but to be fair to him, he took it on the chin and tried his best to block out the 'Olé's' and sarcastic cheering.

STEPHEN KELLY LOOKS THE PART

What a player Rangers have on their hands.

This was the first time I have seen the 21-year-old in the flesh and I can't praise him highly enough.

I loved how he would come deep to collect the ball to start an attacking move.

His passing was crisp and controlled, his weight of pass was exquisite and he simply dictated the play.

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I think the biggest compliment I can pay him is he was like a mini Steven Davis.

The Ulsterman had a wonderful season last term and was rightly named Scottish Football Writers Player of the Year, but at 36 and turning 37 in January, he won't be around forever. 

Rangers though, may not need to worry too much about life after Davis because, in Stephen Kelly, they have a hugely talented young player who clearly has a lot to offer going forward.

There may be a decision for Gerrard to make as to whether he sees him as a key player in the squad for the season ahead or if another loan move would prove more beneficial.

On his showing against Brighton, there should be no doubts he can contribute to this Rangers side.

RETURN OF NIKO KATIC AND FASHION SAKALA DEBUT

The big Croatian made his long-awaited return from a cruciate ligament injury at half-time, replacing Jack Simpson.

He received a proper hero's ovation as he made his way onto the field, and despite a few overhit passes and heavy touches - understandable given the length of time he's been missing - it was terrific to see him storm a football field once again.

Steven Gerrard says patience is key to enable a safe return for Katic: “It’s a special day for Niko, he has worked extremely hard over the last year." He told Rangers TV.

“It’s still very early, people can’t expect to see him back regularly just yet, we need to work him in.

“We need to be patient. He thinks he is ready now but we have to respect the injury.

“The 45 minutes will do him the world of good so I am pleased for him."

Fashion Sakala was also introduced to the Ibrox crowd for the first time since his summer move from Belgian side Oostende and, like Katic, he received a rousing reception.

He worked hard when he came on and had a shot blocked but, in the main, struggled to find a way past the Seagulls backline.

You'd have to fully expect the Zambian will take several weeks to get up to speed with this Rangers side.

Gerrard was pleased to get him involved in the action, telling Rangers TV: “Fashion is only a week in and that’s after being in a hotel room for ten days which is tough.

“With time and more games and as he gets used to us and our style he will get better and better.

“You could see in the box he wants to get shots off, so that’s another positive."

Another game, another set of positives - Rangers are looking in solid shape ahead of next week's big kick-off.