Amidst all the disappointment and frustration concerning their shock exit from the Europa League qualifying stages, Scottish giants Rangers have completed their ninth signing of the season in Graham Dorrans. The 30-year-old comes to Ibrox on a three-year contract in what could potentially be the last major move of his career.
Pedro Caixinha, unlike in their first leg victory against Luxembourgian side Progrès Niederkorn, had more of the star arrivals available for the away trip. And their loss to the side, who managed to score only their third goal in European history and got their first ever win in Europe, was enough to draw criticism about the potential of the new side even before the season started.
Despite hogging all the limelight following Celtic’s invincible season, Rangers fans remain highly sceptical about Caixinha’s potential. The Portuguese boss has already brought in Bruno Alves, Ryan Jack, Dalcio, Fabio Cardoso, Daniel Candeias, Alfredo Morelos, Eduardo Herrera and Carlos Pena, and it could be clearly understood that Dorrans’ arrival would bring out a little cheer from fans.
However, West Ham United midfielder Robert Snodgrass has publicly expressed his admiration for Dorrans stating that he has been the best signing Rangers have made in a long time. “He is a terrific player who has done well in the English Premier League and Championship. He loves Rangers, he absolutely adores them, and it will mean everything for him to play for his boyhood club,” said Snodgrass.
Considering Dorrans’ immense admiration for the Scottish club, Rangers have taken way too long to land him at Ibrox. It would be a dream move for the player and more importantly, his chunk of experience at the highest level both nationally and at the club level could be immensely helpful for Caixinha.
Rangers’ pursuit was further assisted by Norwich City’s failure to get promotion last season, which has triggered a huge exodus of players and the club is going through a major reshuffle. The Teddy Bears’ previous two bids were below the asking price of £1 million, which was rejected by the Canaries.
For just over £1 million, Dorrans is a brilliant buy by Caixinha. The midfielder retained a good passing accuracy of 86.3% last season, given his muscle injury made staying fit difficult for him. Apart from that, his attacking nature doesn’t make him any less of a defensive contributor as he has averaged 1.7 tackles, 1.9 interceptions, 1.5 clearances and 0.1 blocks per game last term.
More than anything, Dorrans would bring the much-needed discipline in Rangers’ midfield and given his quality, he could be thrown right into the mess.
