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GAVIN BERRY in MARBELLA

PLENTY of people have offered their opinion on Rangers signing controversial defender Jon Flanagan, with the fans even split on the move for the player. sport@dailyrecord.co.uk his guilt the full-back was sentenced to a 12-month community order earlier this year and along with injuries the player’s career has stalled.

Gerrard now wants to help Flanagan rediscover the form that earned him an England cap and has challenged him to win over any doubters.

The Rangers boss said: “I’ve got an advantage over many other people in that I know their beliefs and values because I’ve known them for over a decade and I know this was an isolated incident and big mistake.

“I was disappointed at the time for him because I knew it wasn’t him. Jon has held his hand up and was very remorseful. I know he still regrets it to this day. That was the key for me – knowing the kid is going to learn from it and that it won’t happen again. That’s the confidence I’ve got in him.

“He needs to get back to focusing on his football, his form and getting his career back on track. He’s very keen to do that.

“There’s a few doubters out there and a few people who will judge him on the incident but Jon has to win those fans over with his performances.

“I have no doubt that when these fans see the type of player he is they will like what they see. There’s a lot of things Rangers fans want to see in a defender. They want to know if you’re a winner, will run through a wall for them and give every bit of blood, sweat and tears for them.

“I can guarantee Jon will do that because he’s exactly what this squad needs if you look at the player’s strengths.

“He was around the first team for a couple of years while I was there so I’ve worked with Jon very closely and I know the character.

“He’s had a frustrating couple of years on and off the pitch.

“I was aware of Flanagan when he was at the Liverpool academy and Brendan Rodgers moved him up very quickly because of his performances and consistency.

“I’ve told him Jon needs to get back to that level. It’s in there, he’s capable.”

Rangers have yet to play a