Ex Rangers goalkeeper explains why left-field Croatian transfer was 'right choice' as fresh challenge sought
The goalkeeper has praised the ‘family atmosphere’ of his new club after spending time in Denmark last season
Former Rangers goalkeeper Robby McCrorie has expressed his delight at joining NK Varazdin after making a left-field transfer move to the Croatian top-flight outfit.
The former Scotland Under-21 international has signed a two-year contract with Varazdin, who are enjoying an impressive start to the season and currently sit second in the SuperSport HNL table.
McCrorie, 28, had a spell in Denmark with Esbjerg last term, but has now opted for a fresh challenge on the continent with a team who are looking to build on last season’s third-place finish.
The move also guarantees McCrorie a unique place in Scottish football history. He will become only the second Scottish player to feature in the Croatian league, following in the footsteps of defender Scott McKenna.
And the shot-stopper insists everything he has seen since arriving at his new club has strengthened his belief that he has made the right decision after revealing he spoke to former team mates to gain a better understanding of Croatian football.
“My first impressions of the club were excellent,” McCrorie said. “There is a family atmosphere at the club, everyone gives their all and I believe that Varazdin is the right choice for me. I have spoken to several former teammates about the Croatian League and I come here with a very good feeling.
McCrorie has also been impressed by the ambition of his new employers, with Varazdin’s current position near the top of the table giving them plenty of optimism for the months ahead.
“This is an ambitious club that is improving from season to season and striving for the top of the table,” McCrorie added. “We have a strong team and I will give my maximum to help them achieve all their goals.”
McCrorie arrives with plenty of experience of Scottish football, having come through the Rangers academy before spending time with a number of clubs, including Greenock Morton, Queen of the South, Livingston and Kilmarnock.
McCrorie also has one of the more unusual Scotland-related claims to fame. Despite never actually making an appearance for the Men’s senior national team, he has technically been booked while representing Scotland.
The keeper was shown a yellow card from the subs' bench when he was part of Steve Clarke's squad for a Nations League fixture against Ukraine. New Scotland boss Sebastian Pocognoli will be keeping a close eye on his progress amid a shortage of goalkeeping options.
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