Derek McInnes to land 'dream' player as Ross McCrorie to Rangers update drops

Ross McCrorie looks set to reunite with Derek McInnes and return to Rangers as a deal moves closer.

The defender is currently playing his football for Bristol City, and amid interest from England, he has chosen the Gers.

The 28-year-old spent five years at Rangers between 2016 and 2021, but that spell was filled with four loan spells.

One of those moves was to link up with McInnes at Aberdeen during the 2020-2021 season.

That deal had an obligation to buy, so his time in Govan would ultimately end with just 55 appearances.

During his time at Aberdeen, McInnes had plenty to say about McCrorie as we revisit his comments.

Why Ross McCrorie is a 'dream' signing for Derek McInnes

Rangers have been in need of a right-back after the departure of James Tavernier and now, according to the Rangers Review, McCrorie will fill that void.

Andrew Cavenagh had insisted an emphasis would be put on signing Scottish players and the former Rangers ace fits the bill.

McInnes will undoubtedly be thrilled as he had previously named McCrorie as a "dream" signing for Aberdeen.

McInnes stated: "I just love the boy. I think he's a dream on and off the pitch."

The Rangers chief also praised his ability to allow him to be proactive in attack.

He said: "His athleticism gets him out of trouble, his brain gets him out of trouble, gets him into positions. Having Ross's power and intelligence in there allows us to play with one or two more attacking players."

Additionally, after a 1-0 win against Hibernian in 2020, McInnes said called the former Aberdeen ace a "Rolls-Royce".

"His use of the ball is good. His athleticism; he's going to get better with games," McInnes added, as quoted via BBC Sport.

Why McInnes could make McCrorie realise Scotland ambitions

McInnes has also previously tipped McCrorie to become a Scotland international, and while he is technically correct, he has not had as many caps as he would hope.

From that same BBC quotes, McInnes said: "He'll play for Scotland. He is going to have a top career."

However, since then, McCrorie has featured for the Tartan Army on just two occasions.

Under a manager who clearly backs him and at a club that plays on the top end of the Scottish Premiership, McCrorie could propel himself back into Steve Clarke's plans.

Rangers have proven that their players will earn call-ups with Findlay Curtis, John Souttar and Liam Kelly all making the squad.

Lawrence Shankland is another but his call-up came based on his time with Hearts last campaign.

With McInnes' backing, McCrorie is certainly an exciting arrival for the Bears, but he does have a significant Tavernier shadow to step into.