In a deal that is the best of both worlds, Rangers have retained the services of one of the country’s most deadly finishers whilst also ensuring that a model professional will be around to share his knowledge and professionalism for at least one more season.
Jermain Defoe – with 32 goals in his time at Ibrox – has been announced as signing a one-year extension to his contract, although, as revealed by the club, the striker will now move into a player/coach role.
His playing time last season was reduced, however, he still made 20 appearances, scoring seven goals in the process at a rate of one every 90 minutes, ridiculous when you consider he is 38-years old.
The diminutive striker’s goals at the tail end of the season against Celtic and Aberdeen did, however, demonstrate that he hasn’t lost much of his sharpness and is still capable of putting defenders nearly half his age on their backsides.
Steven Gerrard is understandably over the moon at securing Defoe for another season with the gaffer saying:
“I am absolutely delighted to be retaining the services of Jermain both as a player, and now also as a coach.
“It is well-documented the relationship I have with him, having known him for so many years, and I am thrilled that he is going to be passing on his amazing experience and professionalism to the attacking players throughout the club.
“He has shown this season, however, what an asset he can still be for us on the pitch, and I won’t be afraid to use him when necessary. I look forward to Jermain’s return and him beginning his new role when pre-season begins at the end of the month.”
It’s a move that works well for all parties, he’ll still be available for selection but won’t be expected to contribute as often, however, given the way that he finished the season, it wouldn’t surprise me if this isn’t the last season that we see a genuine goal-scoring legend lining up in the famous Light Blue shirt.