Incoming Rangers manager Derek McInnes is on the verge of securing a deal for Bristol City defender Ross McCrorie, whom he once described as a "Rolls-Royce" player. McInnes, who will be officially unveiled on Wednesday, knows McCrorie well from their time together at Aberdeen, where he signed the Scotland international on loan with an obligation to buy during his final season at Pittodrie.
McInnes' High Praise for McCrorie
Speaking after a win over Hibernian in August 2020, McInnes said: "Ross McCrorie is an absolute dream of a boy, he's a Rolls-Royce." The 54-year-old manager has never hidden his admiration for the 27-year-old, who became a key figure at Aberdeen before earning acclaim at Bristol City. McCrorie's career has been hampered by injuries, but he has been a regular starter since leaving boyhood club Rangers to seek more playing time.
A Key Role in McInnes' New-Look Rangers
McInnes added: "He didn't want to be in the shadows, he didn't just want to be a Rangers squad player, he wanted to get out and get on with his career, and I love that about him." This comment hints at a prominent role for McCrorie, whether at right-back, central defence, or midfield, as Rangers eye further defensive reinforcements. McCrorie is also a candidate to become Rangers' next captain, alongside fellow new signing Lawrence Shankland. Even if he does not wear the armband, the versatile defender is expected to be a key member of the leadership group under McInnes.
Emotional Return to Ibrox
McCrorie's return to Rangers marks an emotional homecoming for the player who started his career at Ibrox. The deal with Bristol City is close, and McInnes is eager to integrate him into his new-look side as he begins his second stint as Rangers boss.
