There was a mixed reaction from Rangers fans as widely-respected and previously much-hyped Ibrox Academy talent Ross McCrorie jumped ship to Scottish Premiership rivals Aberdeen.
Whilst the writing was on the wall for the defender-turned-midfielder at Ibrox, you can forgive some fans for feeling unsettled that Ross wanted a move to Pittodrie.
But this is the place that the youngster best felt suited to advancing his career and getting minutes.
With game time at Rangers limited, this is the best move for Ross.
Whilst there has been a feeling of frustration from some fans – mostly down to the fact that McCrorie was so massively hyped up by Rangers – the majority have wished him well.
Contrast this to reaction of Aberdeen fans when midfielder Ryan Jack opted to sign for Rangers.
It’s often said that the rivalry between Aberdeen and Rangers is considerably more bitter in the northeast and there’s probably no greater example of that than in the comparison of these two transfers.
Granted, Ryan Jack was the Dons captain and left on a free to sign for Rangers when his contract expired, but it’s little justification for the bitter treatment he still receives to this day.
Even whilst playing football for his country.
There’s a feeling that this is considerably less about Ryan Jack than it is about Rangers.
You can bet that should Ross McCrorie go on to achieve great things with Aberdeen, the club’s support will more than likely direct their ire at Rangers rather than the player himself.
It’s difficult to begrudge someone the opportunity to better themselves with Jack’s forays into Europe, his establishment with the national team and his regular involvement at Rangers a testament to that.
McCrorie’s exposure to first-team football with one of the division’s leading teams may also justify his move to Pittodrie.
But there’s a considerable difference in class from the way the two sets of supporters have handled each situation, which are not without their similarities.
One of them certainly comes out looking miles better than the other.
