Chris Smalling has insisted he is "open minded" about his next move, with Rangers floated as a potential destination during a live radio debate. The former Manchester United and Roma defender has returned to the UK to search for a new club after leaving Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Fayha.
Rangers' defensive woes
Derek McInnes has admitted the Glasgow giants are on the lookout for more recruits at centre-back after Ben Godfrey suffered an injury during the opening day draw with Dundee United. The need for more depth in defence was emphasised by a ropey showing by the backline in the Europa League qualifying defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok on Thursday.
Smalling's stance
Speaking to Alan Brazil and Ray Parlour on talkSPORT, Smalling addressed his future: "There are conversations going on and I have had some offers. I feel like I am in a good position, but at my stage of my career it's about being patient and making sure it's the right project that fits everything - in terms of my role in the team, and what I can bring on and off the pitch. I'm in a good position, so it's just seeing about my position in the next couple of weeks."
Brazil then grilled the veteran on a destination, naming "the Premier League, Championship and Scotland". Smalling responded: "To be fair, I can't name the clubs because some conversations are further along than others. I am open minded to all. I am not closing any doors, and I am open to all options and that is what we have on the table now. We will see if more are added in the next week or so. It's more kind of the project and the role than the country. When I was at Man United going to Italy wasn't something that was necessarily on my radar, but now I have done it I don't rule out returning to those - it's just seeing what country is good for us [his family] really."
Fan fury
Brazil and Parlour then fielded furious calls from Rangers fans off the back of a disappointing night in Poland - which leaves boss McInnes winless after two games. Irked fan Mal stated: "It was disgusting. Unfortunately, I don't know if Derek McInnes is Russell Martin in disguise. He could be out by Halloween. He has not got a starting eleven. It's embarrassing."
Fan Neil then chipped in: "I was optimistic at the start of the season, we got McInnes in reasonably early and made a few decent signings, but at the back we absolutely all over the place." Ray Parlour said: "We spoke to someone earlier, Chris Smalling - maybe he is the answer? At centre-half? He can still do a job." The punter conceded: "We need to do something."
