How Rangers deal for Aberdeen's Scott Wright 'protects future of squad'

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has hailed the potential of pre-contract signing Scott Wright and believes the capture of the Aberdeen forward helps “protect the future” of the Ibrox squad.

Scott Wright tussles with future team-mates Ryan Kent and Glen Kamara during the Premiership clash between Aberdeen and Rangers at Pittodrie on January 10. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Wright has agreed a three-year deal to join Rangers at the end of this season – with Gerrard admitting any acceleration of the move before the winter transfer window closes next Monday night is outwith his control.

But Gerrard is enthused by the prospect of working with Wright and helping to bring the best out of the 23-year-old, who can operate as a wide player or attacking midfielder.

"A big part of my role is trying to protect the future of the club, trying to improve the group in whatever area we feel needs improved,” said Gerrard.

“It’s very much a case of staying in the now at the moment, in terms of the challenges that are coming thick and fast, but we obviously have to try and be prepared, get ahead of the game and always try and protect the future of the club.

"In terms of Scott, he is a really exciting player and we are looking forward to welcoming him in the summer with open arms. We are really looking forward to working with him. We think he is a big talent who still has loads more to come.

"Obviously, Aberdeen control that situation. He is their player from now until the end of the season. Where that stands right now is that we expect to see Scott in the summer. If that changes in the coming days, it will be Aberdeen who obviously have to try and change that situation, not us.”

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