Ross McCrorie has made it clear why he's back at Ibrox, and it's not just about the Scottish Premiership – it's about his manager. The 28-year-old defender was convinced by Derek McInnes to take on a new challenge in England but found himself itching to return to Rangers when McInnes got the job. "The gaffer" was always going to be the deciding factor for McCrorie, who had multiple offers from English clubs.
McCrorie's words are music to the ears of Rangers fans – he knows what makes a top manager tick and has faith in McInnes' ability to turn things around. "I'd had a good few offers in England but as soon as the gaffer got the job here, I knew he was the man to take this club forward." This is more than just a reunion; it's a new chapter for McCrorie and Rangers.
For those who don't know, McInnes played a huge role in getting McCrorie out of Ibrox three years ago. It was his idea for the youngster to seek regular first-team football at Aberdeen – and it paid off with 115 appearances at Pittodrie. McCrorie still holds McInnes in high esteem: "He's a great man-manager, a real leader – he makes you want to run through brick walls for him." Those words say it all about their time together.
But this isn't just about nostalgia – McCrorie has big ambitions. He wants Rangers to develop that ruthless edge and winning culture that will drive the team forward. He's seen it before, but not enough times: "You play for Rangers, any competition you're in, you want to win. That's the target. It's all about winning. You have to live and breathe it."
The squad is changing at Ibrox with some big-name signings coming through the door – Ben Godfrey, Ivor Pandur, Lawrence Shankland, and Dan Neil are just a few of them. McCrorie believes these new recruits bring not only quality but also character that will help create "unity" and a "brotherhood in the changing room." He's convinced it'll make all the difference come match day.
Source: Ross McCrorie interview