Manager urges 30-year-old to secure ‘brilliant’ Rangers move this summer

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Rangers would be a ‘brilliant move’ for Jack Butland as Crystal Palace’s out-of-contract Manchester United loanee reportedly closes in on a move to Ibrox. 

That is the assessment of Lee Clarke; the former Birmingham City boss who handed Jack Butland his professional debut over a decade ago. 

The 30-year-old goalkeeper, according to the Daily Mail, held a fresh round of talks with Rangers this week as speculation over a move north of the border gathers pace. The Glasgow giants are willing to match the £35,000-a-week wages he takes home at Selhurst Park too, with manager Mick Beale confirming his interest. 

“Jack is a quality goalkeeper,” Clark tells the Daily Record. “And, if he gets a move to Rangers, it will be brilliant for both him and the club.  

“He’ll want to show people he’s ready to be a top drawer number one again.” 

Rangers close in on goalkeeper Jack Butland

Butland has barely kicked a ball in anger over the last few seasons; falling down the pecking order at Palace before joining United in January as a back-up to David de Gea. 

Comparisons, however, can be made between Butland and his former England team-mate Joe Hart. Celtic offered Hart a fresh start after his career stalled south of the border, and have been rewarded for their faith with a pair of Scottish Premiership titles from the revitalised shot-stopper. 

If Butland can emulate Hart’s success, the nine-cap glovesman will not only be a replacement for the departing Allan McGregor but an upgrade too.

And Clark is convinced that Butland – given his vast experience on the big stage – can comfortably handle life in the Glasgow goldfish bowl.

“Nothing ever fazed him. Playing for the (Great Britain) Olympic team, making his international debut at 19, playing in the Championship at such a young age. None of that was an issue,” the former Kilmarnock boss adds.

“So, I’d expect he would be excited and would embrace the challenge that comes with playing for one of the biggest clubs in Europe like Rangers. Especially the challenge of trying to stop Celtic.

“Rangers are massive. Jack would love being part of that. It would be a brilliant move for him.”

“Rangers would be getting a talented keeper who still has a lot of time ahead of him. As you see with Allan McGregor, he could have another 10 years or so left at the top.”