Rangers fan Gareth McAuley delighted by Ibrox move | OneFootball

Gareth McAuley says he is “honoured and privileged” to have signed for his boyhood club Rangers.

McAuley became Steven Gerrard’s 15th signing of the summer when he moved to Ibrox on a free transfer from West Bromwich Albion earlier this week.

And the Northern Ireland international says his move to the Gers represents the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.

“It’s massive for me personally. My family support the club and me myself as well,” the 38-year-old told RangersTV.

“The street I was born on, the kerbs are painting red, white and blue so to get the opportunity to play for this famous club is amazing.

“I’m delighted to be here. I feel very honoured to be here and privileged as well.

“I hope to bring experience. There is a young group of players here and hopefully I can help them with my knowledge, develop them and challenge them to play in the team.”

Prior to his seven seasons at West Brom, McAuley played for Linfield, Ballyclare Comrades, Crusaders, Coleraine, Lincoln City, Leicester City and Ipswich Town.

He has been capped 78 times for his country and speaking last week, Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill explained why he called the experienced defender up for the upcoming clashes with Bosnia and Israel despite the fact he has been without a club since June.

“It’s important for Gareth to be in this squad but is it realistic for me to think Gareth could play in these games?” O’Neill told reporters.

“That is something I’ll determine before the Bosnia game and then the friendly against Israel but it is important to have him in the squad and it’s important people don’t forget about him.

“People will maybe look at his age as a deterring factor; I know what he’s capable of. I know what his fitness levels are and going forward for me he is still a massive player.”