Rangers midfielder Greg Docherty deserves a hell of a lot of respect, for two main reasons.
Firstly, the former Hamilton man and diehard bluenose wanted to achieve his dream of starring at Ibrox so much he knocked on Steven Gerrard’s door.
Aware that he wasn’t going to get enough game time this season, he asked to be loaned out. Docherty figured that by starring for another side he’d earn his place at Ibrox.
Which brings me nicely onto the second point. Docherty has been a revelation at Shrewsbury Town this season.
The English League One club have seen the player develop into a midfield general of sorts. Someone who can score, assist, drive and defend in equal measure. A high energy presence who is not afraid to take control of a game.
He almost inspired an FA Cup giant-killing against Wolves and even
earned the acclaim of a Manchester United legend in doing so.
Upon leaving the Shropshire club, their fans fawned over the 22-year-old. They love him. And not without good reason.
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Doc has been one of their shining lights in a quarrelsome season where the Shrews only just staved off relegation. He’s been their talisman, and for many, their saviour. As a result Docherty dominated their end of season awards, picking up three of them.
Rangers owe Docherty respect because he did exactly what he said he would. And now he returns to Ibrox ready to stake a claim for a first-team place. He’s not interested in being a bit-part player [UK Bulletin].
So much of the early transfer window talk has been about new acquisitions. But this new addition to the squad could be our best and most valuable of the season.
And he’s not even a Steven Gerrard signing.
