Connor Goldson Rangers transfer exit to Birmingham gets approval after 'wonderful' Ibrox spell

If Connor Goldson leaves Rangers, he will go with Alex McLeish's best wishes - especially if he goes to Birmingham.

Big Eck managed and won trophies for both clubs and still has the best interests of both in his heart. A centre-back by trade himself, Hhe was watched on with admiration as Goldson has performed that position for the Ibrox side for six years and is a huge fan of the player.

The Englishman is now 31 and found some of his performances being questioned by the support last season, before being dropped from the side by manager Philippe Clement towards the end of last season. That already placed his future in doubt as the Belgian revamps his squad, but then came interest from former boss Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq.

Birmingham are the latest to be linked and have money to spend despite being relegated to League One, with former Celtic coach Chris Davies looking to get them back to the Championship at the first attempt. McLeish insists the former Brighton man has been a top player for Gers and would be a good signing for the Blues.

“Connor has had a great spell at Rangers and has played for them at the highest level possible, a European final," he told the Scottish Sun. "He has immense experience, and he strikes me as the type who will share that experience with others at the club.

"He’s had a wonderful time at Rangers over six years, and has shown everyone what he can do and what he’s capable of. You won’t hear a bad word from me about centre-halves! And Connor has certainly done everything that’s been asked of him at Ibrox. He’s scored a goal or two, he’s been a threat at set-pieces, and I have always admired his style of play.

“He’s been at Rangers for a long time when you think about the modern game, and look at the way players come and go. It says a lot about him to have that longevity there.

“There are big demands placed on players at Rangers. It’s among the biggest and most demanding clubs in the world. The fans demand victories every single week, but Connor has been aware of that and handled those demands.

“You’ve got to be a winner to last that length of time at Rangers. Wherever he goes next, whether it’s Birmingham or wherever, that will stand him in good stead.”