Rangers and Celtic are the biggest clubs in Scotland, and given their worldwide appeal, not many players are able to say no to a move to Ibrox or Celtic Park.
However, Thomas Robert has done just that, as the winger has reportedly snubbed a switch to Rangers and Celtic to move to unfancied Airdrieonians.
The Chronicle reported in May that Steven Gerrard’s Rangers, Neil Lennon’s Celtic and Premier League club Newcastle United wanted to sign Robert, who was available on a free transfer this summer after his departure from French side Montpellier.
However, the winger has joined Scottish League One club Airdrieonians instead, with the Diamonds announcing the deal on Twitter and on their official website, claiming that it is “a sensational transfer coup”.
Airdrieonians have added that there was interest from clubs in the Scottish Premiership and the Premier League in England in the winger.
The Scottish Sun has suggested that Robert chose Airdrie over Rangers and Celtic as he ‘wanted regular first team exposure’ and ‘wasn’t interested in playing Under-23s football’.
Rangers and Celtic have strong attacking departments, and it would have been very hard for Robert to break into the first team at Ibrox or Celtic Park.
Playing regular first-team football for Airdrieonians at the Penny Cars Stadium will make the teenager a better footballer and will help the winger in his progress and development.
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