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Rangers signing Matt Crooks doesn’t understand why fans think he’s a centre-back

Accrington Stanley's Matt Crooks misses the final penalty in the shoot out (Reuters)
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The 22-year-old is hoping to play centre-midfield, but will fill in at the back if called upon.

Accrington Stanley's Matt Crooks celebrates after he scores his sides first goalMatt Crooks celebrates after he scores his sides first goal

Rangers made a double swoop on Accrington Stanley this summer with both Josh Windass and Matt Crooks heading to Ibrox.

Crooks has unfortunately had to be patient in his desire to feature for Mark Warburton’s side.

The 22-year-old has been injured for the duration of his stay at Ibrox so far and has not yet made his debut.

One big question surrounding the player is where he will feature for Rangers when he returns to action.

Rangers' manager Mark Warburton (L) and assistant manager David WeirRangers’ manager Mark Warburton (L) and assistant manager David Weir

Crooks has been known to play at centre-back during his time at Accrington and with Rangers failing to bring in another centre-back recently it has been hypothesised that Crooks might be used in this role.

But in conversation with the official Rangers website this week he made it clear he was not a centre-back:

“I get asked where I see myself fitting in a lot, everyone on Twitter seems to think I am a centre-back and I’m not sure why.

Accrington Stanley's Matt Crooks misses the final penalty in the shoot outMatt Crooks

“I played all last season at centre-midfield and I am guessing that is where the club saw me playing but I am more than happy to fit in at centre-half if that fits me in the team.

“I spoke to Davie Weir about where I might play and he said don’t hold yourself down to one position so I am keeping myself open.”

Crooks is certainly hoping to be playing in a more advanced role at Ibrox under Mark Warburton.

However, the fact that Crooks is so versatile will be a massive help for the Rangers boss.

Southampton's Shane Long in action with Aston Villa's Joleon LescottSouthampton’s Shane Long in action with Aston Villa’s Joleon Lescott

Rangers recently failed to bring Joleon Lescott to Ibrox to help them cover in the centre-back position.

Crooks can do that, whilst also playing in his more regular centre-back position.