King praise as Gilligan quits Gers boardroom
RANGERS director John Gilligan stepped down from the Ibrox board last night after months of mulling over his future.
Chairman Dave King said
the former boss of brewers Tennent’s had quit to concentrate on his business interests and family life.
King paid a fulsome tribute to Gilligan, who took up his position when the new regime swept to power in March 2015, ousting the discredited former board.
Gilligan, the voice of the fans in the Blue Room, had been mulling over his position for the last three months and believes the end of the season marked the best time to step down.
He was spotted having a furious row with a fellow fan after the recent 5-1 defeat against Celtic – but that argument played no part in his decision.
He feels he has played his part in stabilising the club after its financial meltdown and wants to return to his season-ticket seat.
Gilligan said in a statement: “I am proud to have played my part in helping the right people regain control of our fantastic club. It was a long struggle but words can never describe the joy and thrill of winning that critical EGM. That memory will remain with me forever.
“There is still much to do but I am confident that the board will not fail our supporters, whose never-ending loyalty drives our club forward.”
Gilligan was unavailable for further comment when contacted last night.
Chairman King added: “After years of tireless effort, lobbying and campaigning to turn Rangers’ fortunes around, John has taken the decision to step down knowing that much of what was required post regime change has already been achieved.
“John would now like to concentrate on business and family life, as well as simply being a fan again.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Niko Kranjcar has declared himself fit for next month’s Europa League qualifiers after over nine months out with a knee injury. He said: “I’ll be fully fit in a month.”