In an unexpected turn of events, former Rangers striker Kyle Lafferty has signed for Sarpsborg 08 FF.
The 31-year-old has joined the Norwegian Eliteserien outfit on a deal until the end of the season. With more than half of the campaign already played, Lafferty’s new side currently sit rock bottom.
With just two wins from 19 matches to date, Sarpsborg have 15 points and are currently five from safety.
Former Rangers ace Lafferty joins Norwegian club
Yet, the club’s Sporting Director, Thomas Berntsen, believes the new arrival will help turn things around.
“In Kyle Lafferty we get a player with close to 500 games at a good level,” he told the club’s website (translated). “He has 70 matches and 20 goals for Northern Ireland. Lafferty is a tough guy who sacrifices his head in both boxes. A real warrior we hope to enjoy this season.”
“Lafferty comes with a ballast we hope and believe will help to tilt the matches in our favor. He is a player who clings to the duels. There will be some yellow cards, but also many goals.”
Verdict
After reported interest from club’s like Kilmarnock [Scottish Sun], Apollon Limassol [Scottish Sun] and Buriram United of Thailand [Daily Record], few would have predicted the £900k-rated striker [Transfermarkt] would end up in Norway.
Yet, he’s taken his time to make a decision and clearly feels this move has merit.
Given that less than half of the season remains, there’s little commitment involved here. He’ll be with the Scandinavian club for a dozen games or so and perhaps then he’ll look to earn a more permanent move elsewhere.
However strange this transfer is, it’s a chance for him to get back among the goals that deserted him during his second stint at Ibrox. If he can inspire a turnaround for this club and his goals keep them in the top flight, then more lucrative offers will roll in in January.
