Antonio Čolak has insisted that he is at Rangers to score goals and succeed with trophies in mind, rather than using his move as a stepping stone to the Premier League.
In an interview in his homeland, the Croatian international spoke of his delight at joining Rangers, the passions of the fans, hopes to secure a recall to the national team and more.
One of the immediate ambitions discussed was the Champions League target with the first hurdle to that aim coming soon in the form of Union Saint-Gilloise. Čolak tasted group stage action last season, shooting down Rangers along the way, and now he wants more with his new side.
On refuting links to England, the powerful striker told Vecernji:
“Honestly, I didn’t think about the English Premier League. Just coming to Rangers is a big step forward for me. I want to do my best and score as many goals as possible.”
He continued on his contact with a former Ibrox hero:
“I spoke with Nikica Jelavic after I signed the contract. He wished me luck and hoped I scored many goals. I hope to see him in Glasgow.”
“He explained to me what this club means to people and what they will expect from me – to fight for the badge and have maximum effort in every game.”
Instant impact
With injury issues concerning Alfredo Morelos and Kemar Roofe, there is an early onus on Čolak to hit the ground running. That will be on both domestic and European fronts with the natural expectation and level of demand that comes as part and parcel at Ibrox.
Over the friendly action so far, the first half against Sunderland and then at Blackpool, the Croatian provided a glimpse of what his game is about and indeed his deft first time finish at Bloomfield Road for the offside goal was a very encouraging sign in terms of his finish prowess.