Veteran Rangers star Jermain Defoe has opened up on the Light Blues pre-season and admits that things have changed dramatically since he was a young player just making his way in the game.
The former England international insists things have changed so much that players can’t afford to rest on their laurels over the summer and return to training out of shape.
While Defoe has kept himself “ticking over” he admits it is “completely different” to when he was breaking through, with players given programmes to stick to over their break.
“I mean we get given programmes anyway, so you have to sort of like stick to the programmes,” Defoe told Rangers TV.
“It is not like years and years ago where you get six weeks off and you just rest for six weeks and you come back and get yourself fit.
“You almost have to come back fit for pre-season now, so it is completely different.
“So, obviously I have been ticking over like I have always done, do my stuff in the gym, the running, doing football sessions as well, which has been good because that keeps you sharp.
“And yes, I have come back and I feel good, I feel strong.”
New role for Rangers veteran could extend his Ibrox stay by years
Defoe’s new role as a player/coach at Ibrox could extend his Rangers stint by years if he decides to pursue coaching full-time after hanging up his boots.
The Rangers striker has invaluable experience to pass on to the Light Blues stars and his influence has been clear on Alfredo Morelos over the last few seasons.
When he does finally retire from playing, it will be interesting to see if he sticks by Gerrard’s side in the future or looks to branch out on his own.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
