Jack Simpson joins Rangers as Steven Gerrard seals deal for defender on long-term contract

Jack Simpson has completed a move to Rangers on loan for the rest of the season.

The centre back will spend the rest of the campaign at Ibrox before he moves north permanently in the summer after signing a pre-contract with the club.

Simpson was announced for next season last week and Rangers have worked to get him in the door for the rest of the season to add competition at centre back.

Steven Gerrard has often spoken about the need to have four senior centre backs and the decision to send George Edmundson on loan to Derby means a replacement was needed.

And now Simpson has joined and will compete with Connor Goldson, Filip Helander and Leon Balogun for a starting spot while Nikola Katic continues his recovery from a serious knee injury.

Speaking about the move, he said: "I am super excited to be here. This is a massive club and I am honoured to be a part of it. I can't wait to pull on the shirt, and play in front of the fans and at the stadium.

"It is obvious how big this club is - it's one of the most successful clubs in World football so I am delighted to be here.

"It is going to be a huge challenge to keep up with everything that has happened and to keep pushing myself to stay at the standards that are expected here.

"That is very important to me and I am excited to try and do that."

Gers boss Steven Gerrard added: “We are delighted to have Jack here. We have been aware of him for some time and excited to finally have him.

“Clearly it’s a bonus to have him here now earlier than initially planned. His presence makes us stronger and we are all looking forward to working with him.”