RANGERS has turned down the chance of a big-money deal from German TV in order that all of their loyal fans can see the vital first leg of the UEFA Cup Round of 16 clash.

The Light Blues face Werder Bremen on Thursday, March 6 and there was a chance to cash in on lucrative offers from German TV but that would have resulted in an afternoon kick-off.

Bundesliga heavyweights Bayern Munich are in action the same date against Anderlecht in Brussels and there is an all-German clash between Bayer Leverkusen and Hamburg so German broadcasters asked that all three games be staggered with Rangers playing first.

This was rejected by Rangers as the Club felt a conventional evening kick-off time would cause less disruption to working fans. This was deemed more important than broadcast revenues during this congested fixture period.

The Follow Follow legions have given the club superb backing this season on four fronts. At the last UEFA Cup game against Panathinaikos at Ibrox the one millionth fan of the season entered the stadium.

There are over 20,000 supporters signed up on the continuous credit card scheme for all home cup ties and an early start might have been a problem for many of them in addition to other season ticket holders and supporters in general.

The move is part of the Club's ongoing desire to reward the supporters for their commitment in attending games.

Rangers managed to negotiate a cheaper ticket price for the Scottish Cup replay with Hibs, kids went free to the East Stirlingshire game and UEFA Cup prices have been held at last year's prices.

The Club also endeavoured to obtain a reduced price for the CIS Cup Final against Dundee Utd for fans - but despite best efforts it proved unsuccessful.

Similarly, supporters club payment dates were delayed and staggered to ease the pressure on clubs during this heavy fixture period, despite this placing additional pressure on the ticket centre.

Walter Smith's team needs the backing of a packed Ibrox when Bremen come to town and that's why the kick-off time will be 8pm.