Rangers new pre-contract signing Jordan Jones has explained his comments in the wake of joining the Ibrox side. Jones had enraged Killie fans with his actions on social media after signing an agreement to join Rangers when his current deal expires in June.
The Northern Ireland international has said he was “probably a bit too over-excited” after putting pen to paper for the club he supports. He then went on to say he aims to win Killie fans over by showing commitment on the pitch.
But will the saltiest of Killie supporters forgive the Northern Irish winger?
In a press-conference alongside Steve Clarke today, Jones said:
“[It was] A bit of inexperience at the time. I can’t take it back. The only way I can win the fans back is by performances on the pitch.
“The only thing I can do is show how committed I am, like I have over the last two-and-a-half years.”
Kilmarnock Manager Clarke also urged supporters not to boo Jones, saying they’d also be booing him.
Killie fans angered by Jones actions on social media
Jones took to Twitter to express his delight in signing for Rangers. He described the move as an “unbelievably proud day for me and my family”. He also included a Union Flag and the phrase WATP in the message.
Alone, this would probably be enough to anger Killie fans. Anything pro-Rangers seems to justify a rival fan blowing a casket. It is bordering on ridiculous.
But Jones was also allegedly singing Rangers songs on his Snapchat, and made the announcement during the club’s 150th anniversary celebrations. Cue meltdown.
The Ayrshire club will also recoup no money for Jones, who is in his third season at the club.
The entire thing is made spicier by the fact Rangers league campaign restarts against Killie at Rugby Park next Wednesday.
And if Kilmarnock stand any chance of taking something off Steven Gerrard’s side, they’ll need Jones on form.
But to get the best out of the direct winger, they’ll need to forgive him first. It would also be a real shame for Jones’ impressive and memorable spell at Kilmarnock to be tarred by him moving on. Can they let it go? Their season might depend on it.
Rangers snapped up Jordan Jones and Glen Kamara on pre-contract deals on the same day earlier in the month. Unlike Jones, Kamara could be set to join Rangers in this window.
