The wait is finally over! Rangers have officially announced (via club website) the signing of Jermain Defore on an 18-month loan deal from AFC Bournemouth. The 36-year-old veteran is arguably one of England’s most composed finishers over the past two decades, and a glittering 273 goals in 682 club appearances speaks volumes about his illustrious career. He has also netted 20 times in 57 games for the Three Lions and should now enrich the Gers with his enormous experience and ability to lead by example.
The Bears had secured a return to the top tier a couple of seasons back but did not recruit anyone of Defore’s stature in those days. The influence of Steven Gerrard is helping them rebuild for the greater glory and the supporters, longing to end Celtic’s dominance, must be excited in the aftermath of the official announcement.
“I’m delighted to be able to welcome Jermain to Rangers. He is an exceptionally talented striker and vastly experienced footballer who has scored goals at every club he has played for.”
The gaffer did not hold back his excitement, and neither did the player who has already set his objectives before being unveiled at Ibrox.
Let’s bring that trophy home, boss… ??? pic.twitter.com/QJ59ayIDlm
— Jermain Defoe OBE (@IAmJermainDefoe) January 6, 2019
The fans, too, showed their ecstasy on twitter while welcoming the centre-forward.
Fantastic singing welcome to Rangers Jermain. Absolutely loved watching you over the years and can’t believe you have came to us. What an outstanding human being you are along with a fantastic player. Can’t wait to see you at Ibrox ?⚪???
— Debz Lawson (@LawDebz) January 6, 2019
a man any fan would be proud to have at their club ??
— Oh (@esta_x4) January 6, 2019
The Gers were greeted by a Spurs fan as well who witnessed Defoe’s masterclass during two impressive stints at White Hart Lane.
What a signing for Rangers this is. As a Tottenham fan I can’t speak highly enough of him and his ability & you only have to look at his time at Sunderland to see how he is off the pitch.
Up the gers ??
— . (@Lamela_11_) January 6, 2019
Steven Gerrard received appreciation for his work as Rangers boss.
Wow, love that.
He’s really getting things going up there.
Big stevie G fan.??— Bedfont Eagles u15 (@BedfontEaglesMT) January 6, 2019
All the reactions, however, are not in the player’s favour. One fan has raised his concern over Defoe’s age and cast doubts on the Gers’ transfer policy.
Signing old over the hill players, this is a slap in the face to fans who pay good money week in week out. Should be investing in talented younger players with a future or even a future value.
— Adam McKenzie (@thedriverlegend) January 6, 2019
But the majority of supporters are waiting eagerly to witness him representing the Glasgow giants. They would hope to see him settling down at the earliest and guide the Light Blues to snatch the title glory from their Old Firm rivals.
