Express Sport has learnt that the Rangers star has turned down a short-term switch to the Middle-east until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old, who has only played three games since he arrived from Brisbane Roar in August, was asked if he would be interested in the move but turned it down because he fears it would kill his Australian World Cup dream.

McKay's agent, John Viola, said: "Matt is not interested in going out on-loan. He wants to stay and fight for his place at Rangers. He hasn't had as many games as he would have liked but he is prepared to stay and fight to get into the team.

"He believes he can make his mark and he also knows that if can get into the Rangers team then it would strengthen his case when it comes to the Australian World Cup squad."