Josh Doig acknowledges that rumours that he would be joining Rangers in the summer delighted him.
In addition to waxing poetic about the atmosphere at Ibrox, the Sassuolo left-back claimed that the rivalry with Celtic was the greatest.
He acknowledges, though, that he desired the chance to perform overseas and seems to be having fun in Italy. “Was (Rangers speculation) flattering?” he asked Rangers News.
100%. They are certainly quite large squads. Rangers and Celtic were the two biggest teams in Scotland while I was growing up. However, I feel as though I’ve just left Scotland. I feel as though I’ve just recently left all of that behind. Therefore, even if I returned there, I would still remain at home with my parents. I recently left and am expanding my horizons.
“Obviously, I’m not suggesting that attending Rangers or Celtic would be detrimental, but I feel like I’ve escaped it.” All I want is to travel to new locations, and I think football allows you to achieve that.
In my opinion, Celtic and Rangers are still amazing. It will be difficult to equal the atmosphere of Celtic Park or Ibrox when you play there. And the rivalry between Hearts and Hibs, Celtic and Rangers. Nothing is more significant to me because I grew up there.
It’s so intimate, and there are family members involved, so you can’t get any more than that emotion.
“Even though they are such large organisations, I believed that Aaron Hickey’s move would fit me because I’m an open man. I enjoy trying new things and civilisations.
Playing overseas always piqued my interest. Josh Doig’s skills are unlikely to be sought by Rangers anytime soon. Given their present roster, which includes Jefte and Ridvan Yilmaz, who offer depth and competition at left-back, the Gers may not see an immediate need for Doig.
Furthermore, the 22-year-old’s remarks imply that he is now content with his time overseas and is not ready to go back to Scotland just yet, appreciating the challenge of playing in a new league and the cultural experience. However, his recognition of Rangers’ appeal and the Old Firm culture opens the door for a possible future transfer.
Doig’s receptiveness to different cultures and the reputation of playing for the Ibrox team might make him a sought-after acquisition in a few years, should the Gers find themselves in need of a seasoned left-back with Scottish league experience and an international profile.
Even though Yilmaz hasn’t featured much this season, the team still needs to bolster other areas of the game.
With any luck, the Turkey international will soon be able to return to the first team and challenge Jefte.
