The Portuguese playmaker, 29, joined the Ibrox club on a three-year deal worth £3million this afternoon.

And he insists the reason behind his decision to quit Portsmouth for the SPL is a simple one - he wants to win silverware.

Celtic are chasing a fourth successive championship but Mendes insisted: "It's time to change.

"The championship is always difficult but everyone at this club wants to be champions again and bring happiness to the fans again.

"I will try to help them win something.

"The club itself is such a great club. It's a chance to fight for the championship and win cups.

"All of this together made me accept this offer.

"When you join a club like Rangers, you can't expect anything else other than to win.

"I want to win all the competitions we are involved in."

The European exit at the hands of FBK Kaunas last week proved to be a deal-breaker for Cardiff defender Glenn Loovens, who opted for rivals Celtic ahead of Rangers because they could offer Champions League football.

But the lack of continental outings this term was not a problem for Mendes - because he is convinced Rangers will be back playing at the highest level again next year.

He said: "Of course it's a big disappointment for me, for the players, and especially for the fans.

"But we know if we are champions, we will have Champions League football next season again at Ibrox and that's what I want to achieve."

Mendes may be deprived of European football but is relishing the prospect of taking part in what he regards as one of the game`s most famous fixtures - the Old Firm derby.

Celtic play host to their rivals at Parkhead on August 31 and the midfielder is desperate to be involved in the clash.

"I've watched the derby matches before," he said.

"They are big games, massive games, and ones, when you watch on TV, that you wish you could be involved in. Hopefully I can be involved soon.

"Everyone in Europe knows all about the games between Celtic and Rangers - not just in Scotland or the UK."

Meanwhile, fellow new recruit Aaron Niguez Esclapez would love to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Carlos Cuellar by making a name for himself at Rangers.

Spanish defender Cuellar this week completed a £7.8million move to Aston Villa following an impressive first season at Ibrox.

"It would be great to have that sort of impact," said Aaron. "But, at the moment, I just want to work hard for Rangers.

"I will just work each day and learn from my team-mates.

"I don't like defining myself but I'm sure you will find out soon what kind of player I am."

Cuellar claims he quit Rangers for the Barclays Premier League to boost his international ambitions but Aaron has no fears about his new club's profile in his homeland.

The on-loan Valencia midfielder said: "Rangers are very well known all over the world so, of course, they are also well-known in Spain.

"It's seen as a very important club.

"It's obviously disappointing that Rangers aren't in Europe this season but Europe is always something that Rangers aspire to.

"At the moment, it's all about working towards the domestic league and cups."