Davis returns to Rangers
NI captain leaves Southampton for six-month loan deal at Ibrox
Steven Davis’ much-talked about return to Rangers was finally sealed last night (Sunday).
The Northern Ireland captain signed an initial six-month loan deal – and will now link up with another big signing, Jermain Defoe, at the club’s winter training camp in Tenerife.
Davis, who turned 34 last week, won three league titles and two Scottish Cups during his first spell at Ibrox (see mainpic) – before joining Southampton in 2012.
He was a huge success at St Mary’s and became club captain – but game time has been limited of late – and his contract is up in the summer.
Davis took to Twitter to thank Southampton – and said it was “an honour” to captain them
“Southampton has taught me a lot that I will take into the rest of my career and life,” he said
And speaking on Rangers’ club website, manager Steven Gerrard said: “Steven is yet another fantastic addition to our squad, we are delighted to welcome him back to the club.
“He is vastly experienced at both club and international level and knows the club, the fans and the demands that come with wearing the Rangers jersey very well.
“He has previously captained the club and been captain for his country and Southampton, so we welcome yet another leader into our dressing room.”
Director of Football Mark Allen said: “Everyone at the club welcomes Steven back to Rangers.
“He has been on our radar for some time and becomes the fourth transfer that we have confirmed this window already. We are delighted that he will be able to join his teammates and get started straight away.”
Meanwhile, Davis’ Northern Ireland team-mate, Jordan Jones, will join Rangers in the summer from Kilmarnock – after signing a pre-contract.