After a season torn apart by groin surgery, the former Manchester City defender, who started only two games last term, is now turning his attention to his side's visit to Ibrox and their attempt to spoil the Rangers flag-raising celebrations.

Perth boss Sandy Clark said the former Manchester City stopper had shown in pre-season that his injury nightmare was behind him.

'We're delighted to get Alan back on board before the season starts,' he said.

'We had an agreement to talk about an extended deal if he proved his fitness in our warm- up matches. He did that, a new contract has been signed and now he can get down to playing,' said Clark.

Kernaghan had gone to extreme lengths to try to salvage something from last season but even intensive rehabilitation work with the Scottish Rugby Union squad at Murrayfield couldn't end the misery.

Clark said: 'We missed his influence quite a bit last season and now that he's fit again and signed up for another year hopefully he can make a big contribution. He is an experienced international player and a very good footballer.

'Now I have three experienced central defenders in Kernaghan, Jim Weir and Darren Dods to select from and that's good for the club. There's real quality in there.'

The strengthening of the McDiarmid Park squad by Kernaghan's extended stay has been welcomed by club captain Weir even though he may be the one to suffer.

Weir said: 'There's competition for places throughout the team and everyone wants to be involved in the first game of the new season. It's what we've been building towards for weeks. But we've got a good squad here and some players are going to be unhappy when the team is announced.

'Obviously, I'm desperate to play against Rangers because we all want to judge ourselves against the best. And after adding to the squad over the summer, Rangers are the best in the business in our country. It's also nice to see my old Hearts mates Allan Johnston and Paul Ritchie doing so well for themselves.'

'It would be a real sickener to miss out on this one. I've been here six years and during that time I've been one of the first picks when I've been fit. I started 35 games last season and I want to do even better this year.

'It would be a blow to my confidence if I didn't start against Rangers but I'm old enough and wise enough to realise these things happen.

'I don't think it would be fair on others if I was regarded as an automatic starter, simply because I'm captain. If the boot was on the other foot I wouldn't want to think that an armband guaranteed getting selected.