Rangers hero gives deadline day addition a heads up on 'big expectation' that Ibrox star is well aware of
Ibrox club signed two new players of Deadline Day
Rangers icon Ryan Jack is excited to see new £9.5m striker Kevin Kelsy in a royal blue jersey - but has warned the Venezuela international that a big price tag means a ‘big expectation’.
Kelsy finalised his Rangers move from MLS side Portland Timbers on deadline day as he penned a four-year deal at the club, with the option of an additional year. The 22-year old signed alongside Algerian winger Badredine Bouanani, who joined from German side VFB Stuttgart on loan. The duo made up signings number 13 and 14 at Ibrox before the conclusion of business.
Former striker Youssef Chermiti was the most expensive signing of last year’s summer window and in turn came with expectation from Everton. The 22-year old endured a shaky start in Govan - but eventually found his feet and was last season’s club top scorer. However, a nasty ACL injury he picked up last month has now left him sidelined for a ‘significant period of time’. Jack hopes that Kelsy can handle the pressure of being a big-money addition, just like the man he was brought in to replace.
Rangers hero on ‘big expectation’ for Kelsy
The former Rangers and Aberdeen midfielder was part of the team that stopped Celtic from completing the illustrious 10-in-a-row five years ago. Speaking on Go Radio’s The Football Show, Jack said: “With Kelsy - it’s a big price to pay for a striker.
“Especially after last season when they signed Chermiti on a big transfer fee, but we all know what comes with that; it’s a big expectation. I am sure Rangers fans will be excited to see him in action and hopefully he comes in and hits the ground running.”
Former striker Tore Andre Flo remains Rangers’ most expensive ever player following his move from Chelsea in 2000. Kelsy has now become number two on that list, overtaking Chermiti and fellow new signing Kim Min-su in the process.
Kelsy aware of Rangers’ stature
Despite Jack’s heads up, Kelsy appears to be well aware of the challenge ahead. The striker has previous experience playing for a big European club in Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk. Upon signing, Kelsy claims he’s been aware of Rangers’ stature from a young age. He said: “I’ve heard a lot about the club.
“Even when I was younger, I saw the team in Europe. I know what the club means to the fans. I know we have to win all the games and play well, and I’ll be ready for this with my teammates. I’m ready for this new chapter in my life. I would love to bring some joy to the fans and the club, and score goals to bring amazing moments to the team.”
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