KILMARNOCK midfielder Allan Johnston believes Rangers will have a Bobo Balde of their own if they complete the signing of Ugo Ehiogu.

The 34-year-old defender is expected to become Walter Smith's third signing - and Johnston, who played alongside Ehiogu at the Riverside, believes the defender will be a success at Ibrox.

"Ugo is a typical old fashioned central defender and would be perfect for the Scottish game," said Johnston.

"He wins just about everything in the air because of his size and is difficult to beat on the deck, especially when he gets going.

"In a lot of ways, he's like Bobo Balde because he has the same intimidating presence about him and is also vocal out on the pitch.

"A lot of people don't realise how fast he is until they play against him, but he just has so much power that when he gets going there are few players who get away from him.

"It's also fair to say he loves a challenge and can mix it like most top central defenders."

Ehiogu will join other veteran David Weir at Ibrox, but Johnston doesn't believe that fitness or the pace of the SPL will worry the defender.

"I know he's 34 now, but that shouldn't put anyone off," he said. "He really looks after himself and is a fit lad.

"He has had to look after himself to play in the Premiership for so long. He has had a few injuries, but I think, if he can get over them, he'd be an excellent signing for Rangers."