We do understand: Premier League boss reacts as Rangers new boy completes Ibrox deal

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Rangers have snapped up winger Jamie Murphy this weekend.

Brighton and Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton has been quoted by Rangers’ official website as saying that he understands why Jamie Murphy wanted to sign for the Gers.

Murphy, 28, had been a key player for Brighton following a 2015 move from Sheffield United, but slipped down the pecking order after the Seagulls’ promotion to the Premier League.

The Scot has started just one league game this season, and has now left the Amex Stadium in order to make a return to Scotland for the first time since leaving Motherwell in 2013.

Murphy has joined Rangers on loan until the end of the season, when the Gers will be able to sign him permanently for an already-agreed fee.

The winger grew up supporting Rangers and now makes a dream move to Ibrox, offering manager Graeme Murty another attacking option in the final third.

Murphy – Rangers’ third completed deal this month after signing Declan John permanently and Sean Goss on loan – will be hoping to make a major impact with Rangers, and he has been hailed by Brighton boss Chris Hughton.

In a statement shown on Rangers’ official website, Hughton has admitted that Brighton didn’t actually want Murphy to leave, but the club understand why he wants to join his boyhood club.

Hughton added that Murphy has been ‘excellent’ since joining from Sheffield United, and wished him the best in the future with Rangers.

“Jamie is a great lad, a fantastic professional who has a desire to play – and while we were in no hurry to see him leave, we do understand his desire to play for his boyhood team and one of the biggest clubs in Scotland,” said Hughton.

“He’s been excellent for the club, ever since we signed him from Sheffield United, and wrote himself into club folklore as a crucial part of our promotion-winning side last season. On behalf of all at the club, I’d like to thank Jamie for his efforts and achievements during his time here and wish him the very best for the future,” he added.