Halliday’s so happy to be back
ANDY HALLIDAY has spoken of his relief at seeing his season-long loan deal with Qabala cut short.
The Rangers midfielder knew after just one week he had made a mistake when the Azerbaijan club put the brakes on his attempts to leave.
The 26-year-old, who joined Qabala in August, caught up with the Rangers squad at their winter training camp in Florida this week.
He said: “I knew after a week in Azerbaijan I’d made a mistake, there was a lot of stuff I wasn’t aware of before I went.
“I tried to leave after a week and go elsewhere but they wouldn’t let that happen so it was just a case of trying to stay positive.
“It has been a difficult few months so I am very happy I am back.
“The language difference made it hard and I didn’t have any family over there with me either.”
Despite the negatives Halliday did at least savour the opportunity to make his European debut with the Azerbaijanis.
Qabala beat Polish side Jagiellonia in the Europa League second qualifying round before losing to Panathinaikos of Greece.
Halliday said: “I was thankful for the Europa experience but other than that it wasn’t great. My heart and mind has always been set on coming back to Rangers.”
Meanwhile, Carlos Pena last night claimed he was a success at Ibrox – despite lasting just six months in the Premiership.
The Mexican international has signed a 12-month loan deal with Pedro Caixinha’s Cruz Azul, based in Mexico City.
The 27-year-old, whose wages are being paid in full by Cruz Azul, said: “I played 12 games for Rangers but I consider that as only 10 because in the last two I only played for a few minutes. I scored five goals so I can be satisfied with those figures.”
“I got on well with Caixinha. He was why I went to Rangers. He is a great coach and I thank him for the opportunity.
“I don’t view my time in Scotland as a setback to my career. I have matured as a man and as a player.
“I am used to criticism. I have no problem with it.
“I am confident I’ll be a good player for Cruz Azul.”