Allan McGregor questioned whether he could bring enough to Rangers when weighing up whether to return in a coaching capacity.
Despite being part of Barry Ferguson’s interim backroom team at the end of the 2024-25 season, he had his doubts and was “shocked” when offered the chance to join Derek McInnes’ staff.
The former Rangers goalkeeper never gave coaching a thought during his playing days, during which he became a legendary figure at Ibrox.
However, the ex-Scotland international took up the offer to return to his boyhood club, where he played 505 times, and is “buzzing” to be back as he aims to help restore standards.
“This [offer] took a bit more thought because it is a longer-term thing,” he told Rangers TV.
“I thought about how it would look for the club with me not having my coaching badges and having to start them, and what I could bring here. It was really important to me.
“I had a little taste of it and it is different, but it’s enjoyable. Once I am focused on something, I am all in.”
There has been a notable change in the goalkeeping department this summer, with Rangers signing Ivor Pandur from Hull City before Jack Butland moved in the opposite direction.
Many expect Croatian Pandur to be Rangers’ number one this coming season, but Liam Kelly remains at the club and will continue to provide competition.
“Ivor and Kels will be really pushing to be Rangers’ number one and play in the first team,” McGregor added.
“I never took it for granted. I never really thought of myself as the number one. I always thought there’s competition and nothing is ever guaranteed, and you need to work every single day as hard as you possibly can.”
