Michael Beale has reacted on Twitter after Rangers announced that Jermain Defoe has left Ibrox after three-years with the Premiership side and helping to win the title last season.
Defoe initially left Bournemouth to join the Gers on loan in January 2019, before agreeing a permanent transfer to Glasgow. His deal was due to expire last year, but signed a 12-month extension in June that also saw the striker take up a role in Steven Gerrard’s coaching staff.
As a result, Defoe has rarely featured this season with just two appearances – each as a late substitute. The London-born forward has also not played since Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s first Premiership fixture at the helm on November 28.
Van Bronckhorst’s arrival additionally marked another change in role for Defoe at Rangers. The Dutchman removed the Englishman from his support crew. The Daily Mail also noted he expected Defoe to step up his playing responsibilities, which proved not to be the case.
Defoe last featured in a Rangers matchday squad when he played the final minute against Livingston on November 28. The 3-1 win at the Tony Macaroni Arena was also the 39-year-old’s first outing since enjoying a late eight-minute cameo at Dundee United on August 7.
Rangers have already moved to replace Defoe in Van Bronckhorst’s plans with Cedric Itten returning to Ibrox. The Gers recalled the 25-year-old from a loan spell with Greuther Furth.
Beale reacts to Defoe leaving Rangers
Defoe leaves Rangers with 32 goals and 10 assists after 76 appearances in all competitions. He also struck once in an Old Firm Derby, as part of two wins in five meetings with Celtic.
Beale, who worked with Defoe at Rangers and as part of Gerrard’s coaching team before following him to Aston Villa, has now wished the forward well for a future away from Ibrox.
“Good luck Jermain Defoe,” Beale wrote. “Was a fantastic signing for Rangers, both on and off the pitch.”
According to The Athletic, Defoe still feels he can contribute as player following his Rangers exit. So, he could yet continue away from Glasgow in the twilight years of his career.
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