NafisaJack Butland has opened up about his surprise departure from Rangers this summer.
The former England international has now confirmed his switch to Hull City following their promotion to the Premier League.
He will now prepare for a return to his homeland after three years at Ibrox.
The exit came as a surprise to many supporters as it unfolded rapidly.
Ivor Pandur has arrived as part of an unusual swap arrangement where funds were involved for both players, with the Croatian costing £6 million.
Butland shares the disappointment felt by fans in G51 as he spoke publicly for the first time following his exit from Govan.
In his first interview since leaving Rangers, he said: “It’s football, you should know it. It’s incredible. I had no idea at that point [last time on talkSPORT]. No truer words were said last time so it’s a bittersweet one.
“Letting go, I don’t think you can when you’ve been at a club like Rangers. You don’t really let go. It’s been really tough. I’ll never be far from it, I fully enjoyed the last three years, it’s been a huge part of my career and one that I’m very grateful about having the opportunity to be a part of.
“It’s bittersweet, sad to leave, but really excited about the opportunity.”
Rangers are undergoing significant changes this summer as the club continues to reshape the squad and coaching staff following another transitional period.
The Light Blues have already welcomed several new arrivals in the early stages of the window, signalling a clear desire to build a competitive team capable of challenging at the top of the Scottish Premiership and making an impact in Europe.
A new face has also been installed in the dugout, with Derek McInnes bringing fresh ideas and experience to the role for the third managerial appointment in as many seasons.
These developments have created a sense of renewal at Ibrox, but they have also led to some emotional farewells for long-serving players who have contributed during challenging times.
There is evident frustration from Butland’s perspective this summer after being moved on from Ibrox.
That is partly due to some inconsistent performances in the Scottish Premiership last season.
Rangers had additional motivation for the deal as it presented a strong market opportunity to secure an excellent replacement in Pandur.
Hull needed to generate £6 million before June 30 to avoid a points deduction in the new financial year.
This situation allowed the Gers to facilitate a swift exchange, with Butland’s £3 million move in the opposite direction also helping the finances.
The Englishman ultimately felt blindsided by the speed of events, but it was an opportunity that McInnes and the board felt they could not overlook.
Now, all eyes turn to the future at Ibrox as the club looks to integrate the new arrivals and push for silverware under the refreshed leadership.
Nafisa
