Craig Gordon admits Allan McGregor has proven him wrong at Rangers
Former Celtic player Craig Gordon admits “incredible” Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor has proven him wrong as he thought he would retire at the end of last season.
McGregor looked set to hang up his gloves last summer, only for Giovanni van Bronckhorst to convince him to pen a new deal for another year following the club’s exploits in the Europa League.
However, there have been reports [Daily Record, 16 February] that the 41-year-old will retire at the end of the campaign and the shot-stopper’s longevity has wowed Gordon.
Speaking to the Daily Record, ahead of Rangers’ crucial League Cup final clash with Celtic on Sunday, Gordon also shared his verdict on the veteran’s future at Ibrox.
He said: “Allan’s had an incredible career, a lot of big games and big performances.
“I would expect him to rise to this one. He’s a year older than me but, being of a similar age, I know how much hard work it will take from here on in for him and myself.
“It’s great that he’s still playing. I thought it might have been his last game ever at the end of last season when he came off the bench for a minute. He has managed to go another season and who knows? We will see at the end of this season whether he goes again.”
Up to him
It is incredible indeed that McGregor is still going strong, performing at the highest level at his age, and there are no reasons why he won’t extend his stay at the club beyond this summer.
Many will expect him to hang up his gloves at the end of this season, especially considering he’s shared minutes with Jon McLaughlin under Michael Beale.
The clamour for him to extend his stay is warranted, however, it will be up to McGregor whether he wants to continue further.
With the Gers expected to address their goalkeeping concerns this summer, will the 41-year-old be playing much next season? It’s unlikely.
He’s enjoyed a tremendous career at the Ibrox, and Sunday’s final showpiece could well be his last for the Rangers the way things are looking right now. Whatever happens, McGregor will always remain a Rangers icon.
In other Rangers news, Alan Rough has predicted the score for the game against Celtic.