Rangers fans love Jermain Defoe's heartfelt 'British institution' tweet after contract extension

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Jermain Defoe reacted to the confirmation of his new deal at Ibrox by tweeting about his love for the ‘British institution’ and the post has got Rangers fans emotional.

There had been uncertainty surrounding Defoe’s future for some time, with the 38-year-old’s previous deal expiring at the end of May.

Jermain Defoe will still be at Rangers next season, albeit in a slightly different role. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

However, on Tuesday afternoon it was confirmed that a deal had been reached for him to stay on at the club next season in a player/coach capacity.

Defoe scored seven goals for the Light Blues last season, but only played 627 minutes of football spread over 20 appearances.

“I am absolutely delighted to be retaining the services of Jermain both as a player, and now also as a coach,” said Gers boss Steven Gerrard [Rangers.co.uk].

“It is well-documented the relationship I have with him having known him for so many years, and I am thrilled that he is going to be passing on his amazing experience and professionalism to the attacking players throughout the club.

“He has shown this season, however, what an asset he can still be for us on the pitch, and I won’t be afraid to use him when necessary. I look forward to Jermain’s return and him beginning his new role when pre-season begins at the end of the month.”

Jermain Defoe described Rangers as a ‘British Institution’ on Twitter. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

It’s fair to say that Defoe, who initially moved to Ibrox on an 18-month loan from Bournemouth, is also happy with the new arrangement.

Reacting on Twitter, he wrote: “Since I joined Rangers in 2019, I never expected to fall in love the way I have done. This is not only a great club but a British institution. I want to thank the gaffer, our Chairman and Board for this opportunity. I cannot wait to get started for the club’s 150th year.”

Soon after the announcement, ‘Defoe’ was trending on Twitter, and his tweet received over 15k likes.

Here’s a selection of reactions:

https://twitter.com/RangersBear_55/status/1402303089093267459

In other news, a Rangers youngster ‘on the same path as Nathan Patterson’ has also signed a new contract.