Rangers manager Mark Warburton has welcomed the appointment of Ian Cathro by Hearts and says the young head coach must have the credentials to succeed in the role.

The decision to choose Cathro as successor to Robbie Neilson has caused controversy, with some people within the game questioning the suitability of someone who has never played professionally.

The criticism has come despite the coach's eight-year apprenticeship taking in jobs in Portugal, Spain and England.

Cathro will take charge of his first match against Rangers on Saturday and Warburton said his decision to take on a fresh challenge was to be applauded.

"I'm delighted to see the appointment," Warburton said. "I think it's brave on his part and it's a brave call by Hearts.

"He's a young coach but he's obviously very knowledgeable . He's demonstrated that, I'm sure, to a number of people within the game so I'm delighted for him. I wish him well after the weekend."

Warburton, who also came to management without a top-level playing career behind him, said he felt there were benefits to taking a different route to the dugout.

"The game is changing," he said. "The players coming through the academy system are changing and they are far more inquisitive and knowledgeable about the game.

"I think it's more about man-management now and creating the right environment for players to develop.

"So I think you can come from a different environment and make sure you put your knowledge and experience into place here."

Warburton also insisted that Rangers were still capable of attracting big name players despite the high-profile falling out with Joey Barton that led to the midfielder leaving the club after playing just eight games.

Rangers are keen to increase their options in that area after Barton's departure and injury to Niko Kranjcar.

Warburton does not believe the Barton row will put prospects off a move to Ibrox.

"It's a big club," he said. "It's not about Joey or myself. Rangers is a magnificent club, a fantastic football institution.

"You had to be at Ibrox on Saturday to see that atmosphere and feel it around that magnificent football stadium.

"There is no doubt there are huge selling points to Rangers so we're always delighted to hear that."

He added: "We're not going to outbid big clubs down south for players in terms of the financial aspect but we can demonstrate what Rangers has to offer in terms of the training complex, an iconic stadium and a magnificent support with 50,000 fans, so there's a lot to enjoy about Rangers.

"Are we still capable of signing someone of Joey's calibre? Absolutely, no doubt."