As 2019 began, Rangers player, Greg Docherty, reflected on his 2018 on Twitter.
A year of big changes and new challenges! Excited to see what 2019 holds ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/rmuqhE1dlr
— Greg Docherty (@Gregdocherty96) December 31, 2018
It was undoubtedly an extremely significant year for the 22-year-old.
He fulfilled a boyhood ambition by securing a move to Rangers from Hamilton in January. He then featured regularly during the second half of the season at Ibrox.
However, when Steven Gerrard arrived, Docherty found himself on the move again.
Docherty has made 22 appearances in League One this season. (Photo by Molly Darlington – AMA/Getty Images)
He has clearly applied himself extremely well so far at New Meadow. His stats reflect well on him, with seven goals in all competitions and a number of assists in recent matches.
Yet, perhaps it’s the reaction of the fans that shows how much he has achieved so far. Bears clearly believe he has a future at Ibrox.
Keep Grafting Greg, hopefully see you back where you belong soon 🔴⚪️🔵
— Four Lads Had a Dream (@4ladshadadream) December 31, 2018
It must have been a whirlwind of a year young man but keep the focus as you know fine well your performances and development are being monitored real close. All the best for 2019 and look forward to seeing you grace the pitch at Ibrox once again.
— Sing-Ger (@DFW_GER) December 31, 2018
Think you are a future rangers captain mate all the best for the rest of your season 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
— boab 🇬🇧 (@bigboabyw) January 1, 2019
It wasn’t just Rangers fans showing their appreciation, though. Shrewsbury supporters seem desperate to hold on to him for as long as possible.
Hope you're staying at Salop for now. You've been awesome so far 🔷🔶🔷 🇬🇧
— Andy Fandango 🇺🇦 #istandwithukraine Нет войны (@FL0R34T5alopia) December 31, 2018
He’s been quality! You’ve got a hell of a player! Player of the season for us so far.
— Joe Evans (@EvsieEvans) December 31, 2018
I’m sure Rangers want you back, but would love to see you at Salop til the end of the season as you have been awesome!! ⚽️🔷🔶
— Paul France 🇺🇦 (@Francey85) January 1, 2019
Clearly, being shipped out on loan hasn’t dampened Docherty’s desire to succeed at Rangers.
Yet, with Steven Davis’ return to Ibrox reportedly all but done, it’s extremely unlikely that Gerrard will recall the young midfielder in January.
Instead, he will be allowed to continue his development, with an eye to breaking into the first team next season.