'He told me...' - Player speaks out about whether he was going to re-sign for Rangers

Kenny McClean revealed he never came close to re-signing for Rangers from Norwich City after talks with boss Johannes Hoff Thorup.

The 32-year-old was reportedly identified as a potential target for Philippe Clement throughout the summer but a move failed to materialise after a disagreement on personal terms [Rangers Review].

Rangers opted to move in a different direction and over three months since the proposed move, McClean has lifted the lid to the Daily Record [11 October, page 48] over how close he came to a return to Ibrox.

He said: “He’d made it quite clear publicly that he wanted younger players. And I didn’t quite fit that bracket. But when I spoke to him he knew he needed some experience about the place and I’ve been there a long time.

“He told me I was still a part of the big plan. So for me that was me secure and getting my head down at Norwich and not really focussing on elsewhere. It was resolved pretty quickly.”

Should Rangers have pushed harder for Kenny McClean?

The Gers certainly could have used McClean’s experience this season following the side’s Champions League elimination and already trailing Celtic in the Scottish Premiership since the proposed negotiations.

While the former Rangers academy prospect is well into the twilight years of his career, his extensive experience in the SPFL and Championship, not to mention his leadership, is a trait currently lacking in the Ibrox dressing room.

Connor Barron and Mohamed Diomande have formed a strong partnership in central midfield this season, however on the flanks, the Light Blues have not been so fortunate with Vaclav Cerny receiving endless abuse for his performances before his brace in the 2-0 win against St Johnstone.

Rangers have looked out of their depth this season when faced with tough opposition with qualification to the knockout stages of the Europa League, a competition the supporters feel is below their station, is far from secure after the 4-1 loss to Lyon last time out.

McClean would have added versatility to the Gers’ ranks but unfortunately due to the finances at the club, a return to Ibrox wasn’t possible. Clement needs more leaders in his side to show themselves as James Tavernier has proven time and time again he cannot be relied on.

In other Rangers news, Cyriel Dessers has been sent a new message at Rangers after his international snub.

For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

The post 'He told me...' - Player speaks out about whether he was going to re-sign for Rangers appeared first on Ibrox News.