Former Rangers manager Walter Smith has warned his former club of the importance of keeping striker Nikica Jelavic.

Jelavic has reportedly been attracting interest from other clubs, including Premier League sides Everton and Queens Park Rangers.

"I don't think Rangers are in a position where they can afford to lose Jelavic in January," said Smith.

The former Ibrox boss, who signed Jelavic from Rapid Vienna in 2010, claimed that it would be difficult for the Glasgow giants to win the league without the Croatian forward.

"I think it will be very difficult for them to go on and win a championship if they do," he added.

Jelavic has scored 12 goals in 18 Scottish Premier League appearances for Rangers this season.