Rangers Secure Scotland International on Free Transfer
In a strategic move to strengthen their squad depth, Rangers FC have completed the signing of veteran Scottish goalkeeper Matt Gilks on a two-year contract. The 34-year-old shot-stopper arrives at Ibrox as free agent after his departure from Burnley, ready to challenge current first-choice Wes Foderingham for the starting position.
Gilks brings valuable Premier League experience to Glasgow, having been Blackpool’s regular keeper during their memorable 2010/11 top-flight campaign. His international credentials include three caps for Scotland between 2012-2013, demonstrating his quality at the highest level.
Summer Recruitment Drive Continues
The acquisition of Gilks represents another piece in Rangers’ ambitious summer rebuilding program under manager Mark Warburton. This signing follows the high-profile arrivals of Joey Barton, Clint Hill, Niko Kranjcar, and Jordan Rossiter as the club prepares for their return to Scotland’s top division.
According to Six6s sports analyst David McAllister, “Gilks represents exactly the type of experienced backup Rangers needed. His presence will push Foderingham while providing reliable cover – crucial for a club with Rangers’ ambitions.”
Familiar Faces Ease Transition
The veteran goalkeeper has already identified several familiar faces in the dressing room that should help his adaptation process. “I know quite a few of the players from the Scotland set-up and I played with Danny Wilson and Andy Halliday at Blackpool,” Gilks revealed in his first interview with the club’s media team.
This existing rapport could prove invaluable as Rangers look to hit the ground running in their Premiership campaign. Gilks emphasized, “I’m kind of hitting the ground running in that respect, rather than getting to know everybody, so it will make it slightly easier for me.”
Barton Reunion Brings Quality Assurance
One particularly welcome reunion for Gilks is with controversial midfielder Joey Barton, his former Burnley teammate. The goalkeeper was quick to defend Barton’s often-misunderstood reputation while praising his footballing intelligence.
“I know Joey very well,” Gilks stated. “We got on really well at Burnley actually and he probably helped me through the last year. He’s a great guy and I think he’s one of the most misunderstood footballers that has ever played.”
Gilks elaborated on Barton’s qualities: “He’s very intelligent, he’s a very good footballer and he absolutely loves the game. The experience and what he can bring to this team, you can’t buy that.”
What Gilks Brings to Rangers’ Title Challenge
The signing addresses several key needs for Rangers as they prepare for their Premiership campaign:
- Valuable Experience: Gilks‘ 15-year professional career includes Premier League and international experience
- Strong Mentality: Known for his leadership and vocal presence in defense
- Reliable Backup: Provides genuine competition for Foderingham without disrupting squad harmony
- Set-Piece Command: At 6’2″, adds aerial presence to Rangers’ defensive unit
As Six6s Scottish football correspondent notes, “This may not be Rangers’ flashiest summer signing, but it could prove one of their most important. Quality goalkeeping depth often separates title contenders from pretenders.”
With preseason preparations underway, Rangers fans will be eager to see how these new additions gel as the club aims to mount a serious challenge to Celtic’s domestic dominance. The arrival of Gilks suggests Warburton is leaving nothing to chance in building a squad capable of competing on all fronts.
