Former Rangers star Daniel Candeias stole the show on Saturday in a rare Turkish Super Lig victory for Gençlerbirligi SK.

The Portuguese winger was a favourite with the supporters across his two years at Ibrox, with his industry greatly appreciated.

Daniel Candeias celebrates scoring at Easter Road. (photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)

He struck up an excellent partnership with James Tavernier on the right and was capable of moments of individual brilliance, with his Europa League goal at Spartak Moscow a particular highlight.

He made over 50 appearances during the 2018/19 season but with Steven Gerrard intent on bringing in new faces during the summer, he opted to move to a club where he would be guaranteed playing time.

Gençlerbirligi snapped him up on a two-year deal in July 2019 [STV] and he helped them to narrowly avoid relegation during his first season.

It looks like they’ll have to scrap for survival again this time around, but the former Ger has been in good form and he produced a superb display on Saturday to guide his side to just a second win of the campaign, at home to league leaders Alanyaspor.

Genclerbirligi v Ittifak Holding Konyaspor: Turkish Super Lig
Former Rangers winger Daniel Candeias is now at Gençlerbirligi. (Photo by Ali Balikci/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

The 32-year-old assisted the opening goal of the game by picking out Berat Ayberk Ozdemir, who fired home from outside the box, before he doubled the advantage with a strike of his own in the 75th minute.

Alanyaspor pulled one back from the penalty spot seven minutes from time but Gençler were able to hold on, with the three points moving them up one place to 19th in the league table.

Last season, some Bears pleaded with the winger to return to Ibrox, but with Gerrard’s revamped squad thriving and Candeias playing a key role for his new club, it looks like this move has worked out for all parties.

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