The Rovers fans who made the trip to Ibrox got their first sight of new signing Bradley Johnson and boss Tony Mowbray feels he will prove to be a big player for the club.

The 32-year-old has a wealth of Championship experience and was part of the Derby side beaten in the play-off final by Aston Villa in May.

Johnson played 76 minutes of the 1-1 draw at Ibrox, having not featured at Mansfield in midweek, and the aim for Mowbray is to get the left-footed midfielder as fit as possible so to impact games next season.

He was partnered by Corry Evans in the first half, and by Lewis Travis after the break, and Mowbray feels he can have an impact in both boxes.

“He needed a game. He’s a lad who has some physicality about him, some size but plenty of quality in his left foot,” Mowbray said of the former Leeds United and Norwich City man.

“He needs to play, be fit, and get him as many minutes as possible.

“I think he’s a good acquisition. He’s an experienced footballer who knows his job.

“We have to get him super fit so that he can impact every game physically up and down the pitch and impact in both boxes as well as with his passing and his strength.”

“I thought he did fine yet we will get him fitter and stronger.”

Rovers improved after the break at Rangers, helped by the players introduced off the bench by Mowbray.

The boss was particularly impressed with teenager John Buckley, who operating from a more advanced midfield role, as well as Joe Rothwell who allowed Rovers to play more with the ball. They deservedly led when Travis equalised from close range after another substitute, Ben Brereton, saw an effort spilled by Allan McGregor.

“We brought some young players on, some athleticism on, and players who can stay with the ball,” Mowbray added.

“John Buckley, I don’t want to build him up too much but he has great ability to take care of the football, Joe Rothwell as well, I thought we looked good and were going to nick the game in the last 20 minutes.

“It was a good test. They were good with the first half and caused problems.

“We are going to be out of possession at times this season against some pretty good teams and that’s why it was a good test for us.”