'A bit surreal' - Penrice joins Rangers from AEK Athens on loan

• Published 4 minutes ago

James Penrice says it is "a bit surreal" after joining Rangers on loan from Greek champions AEK Athens, with the Ibrox club having an option to buy.

The 27-year-old Scot previously played in his homeland with Livingston and Heart of Midlothian after earlier spells with Partick Thistle and East Fife.

Penrice moved to the Greek top flight from Hearts last summer and played 32 times for the side who beat reigning champions Olympiacos to secure their 14th national title. Sixteen of those 32 appearances were starts.

Penrice has made more than 300 senior club appearances overall and arrives amid fellow left-back Tuur Rommens' absence. The Belgian has picked up a groin injury and is out for up to seven weeks.

The deal is subject to international clearance, with Rangers' next game at home to St Mirren in Sunday's Premier Sports Cup tie (16:00 BST).

"It's a bit surreal," Penrice told club media. "I'm delighted to finally get it done.

"I've been involved in Scotland for a while and you know what comes with the name.

"There's only one objective and that's to win stuff. When you don't, there comes pressure. I'm fully aware of what is expected here."

Manager Derek McInnes added: "He plays in an area of the pitch where we are currently a little light, so it was important that we brought in someone who can bolster us in that position and provide competition.

"James already has valuable experience of the Scottish Premiership and understands the demands of the club and from speaking to him it was clear he is hungry to work hard and continue progressing in his career."

Related topics

• Football
• Scottish Football
• Scottish Premiership
• Rangers

• Published 10 hours ago