Many professional footballers, particularly those with family connections to Glasgow and the west of Scotland, have grown up supporting Rangers. The Ibrox club’s sporting influence extends beyond those who actually played for the club, meaning prominent players have identified as Rangers supporters even when their careers took them elsewhere.
From boyhood allegiance to memorable games or admiration of players, there are a variety of ways players have become part of the Rangers fan base. “I love Rangers Football Club. I grew up loving Rangers Football Club,” former Chelsea player Frank Lampard said after being linked to the Ibrox manager’s job.
Have a look at other famous players with a connection to Rangers.
13. Chris Waddle
Famously trolled Celtic on Twitter after Rangers’ Scottish Cup win back in 2016 ended the Hoops’ dreams of clinching a double, making his feelings perfectly clear as to where his allegiance lies in the process. Photo: Stu Forster
14. Robbie Savage
BT Sport and BBC Radio 5Live pundit Savage once declared “Glasgow is blue” after the Light Blues ran out 3-0 winners over Celtic during a derby clash at the end of last season after arguing with Chris Sutton on air. | Getty Images
15. Barry Douglas
Hailing from Glasgow, the former Dundee United and Leeds defender has forged a successful career abroad primarily in Poland with Lech Poznan. He grew up within five minutes of Ibrox Stadium and has Rangers in his heart. | Getty Images
16. Kenny McLean
Lifelong Gers fan McLean once stated it would be a dream come true for his family to see him play for the club at some stage during his career. For a brief period, it seemed a move to Ibrox last year was a real possibility. Photo: Marc Atkins