Aston Villa winger Marc Albrighton denies Rangers link

Albrighton has been linked with Rangers (GETTY IMAGES)

Winger Marc Albrighton has pledged his immediate future to Aston Villa and dismissed reports linking him with a move to Rangers.

Albrighton had struggled to command a regular first-team spot during the current campaign before returning to Alex McLeish's side against Manchester United 12 days ago.

He scored the opening goal in Saturday's 2-1 win at Bolton but is adamant leaving Villa never crossed his mind when out of favour.

Academy product Albrighton, 22, said: "I have a mate at Rangers but I won't be going there anytime soon.

"I don't want to think about leaving at the minute. I know things have not been great.

"But I am a Villa boy and I can't think of anything worse than leaving the club that's given me all my games and all my happy moments.

"One day I may have to leave, and that will be a sad day for me, but at the moment I am concentrating on playing well for Villa."

Albrighton added: "I want to fight for my place here and see if I can establish myself and get back to my best here.

"I don't want to take the easy route. I prefer to do the hard work and the manager told me I was in his plans."

PA