Ross Wilson and Steven Gerrard on waiting game Rangers had to play to complete Bongani Zungu deal

Ross Wilson has outlined the waiting game Rangers had to play in order to secure the signing of South African midfielder Bongani Zungu.

The 27-year-old this evening joined the Ibrox club on a season-long loan, with option to buy next summer.

He's a player who had been linked with a switch to Rangers throughout the summer, and various challenges meant it was difficult for a deal to be done earlier in the window.

However Wilson, the Ibrox sporting director, says it was a signing they were always keen to make.

He told the official Rangers website: "Bongani is a player whose situation we have monitored throughout the window. We are excited to have him join Rangers.

“Following a difficult and prolonged period of lockdown in South Africa, it would have been hard for him to have joined us at an earlier stage of the window.

“However, we have kept an open and positive dialogue with Bongani and Amiens, and the structure of this agreement works well for all parties.

“The financial impact of coronavirus is being felt by all clubs in a market that has been like no other that I’ve ever experienced.

"We are pleased with the work we have done during the window across the squad and despite the clear challenges brought by the virus, our board have been keen to continue to invest in the development of the squad and the club.”

Rangers boss Steven Gerrard says Zungu will strengthen his starting XI.

He added: “Bongani fits the profile of player that adds further strength and depth to our midfield. We made it clear that we wanted a player who will enhance our squad and starting XI. We believe Bongani does this.

“We wanted a dominant midfielder with the right profile who can enhance the team and compliment other players we have . We have monitored this situation all summer and now feel it’s the right time.

“Our board have been very supportive throughout the window with seven new signings. We believe we have a squad in place that will compete in all competitions, both domestically and in Europe. This is a pleasing transfer for us and we look forward to Bongani joining up with the squad.”