KATIC: IT’S AS GOOD AS OLD FIRM WINNER
NIKOLA KATIC was reduced to tears after scoring his first goal since heading the winner for Rangers at Parkhead almost two years ago.
And the on-loan Ibrox stopper insists his strike for Hajduk Split in a friendly against third tier Zadar on Saturday meant every bit as much to him as his Old Firm strike.
It is the latest milestone hit by the Croatian on his journey back to full fitness after 14 months of agony following a horror knee injury.
That robbed Katic of the chance to play any part in Rangers’ title success last term and he is determined to return to Ibrox stronger than ever.
Katic, who turned 25 yesterday, beamed: “Life is great!
“Every game means a lot to me, whether it is a friendly or the Champions League, it is important to score as well and that I can progress after day-to-day rehabilitation.
“Everything was good and I am satisfied.”
Katic revealed how daily conversations with Rangers boss Steven Gerrard helped him through the lowest months of his career.
Long days spent in the gym were put to good use though and Katic, who has two years left on his deal at Ibrox, insists he’s bigger and more powerful than ever.
With Connor Goldson yet to commit to a new deal and Rangers watertight defence struggling to repeat their impenetrable form of last term so far, some Gers fans hope to see Katic back in Govan sooner rather than later.
But Gerrard is keen for the defender to get as much game time as possible under his belt in his homeland.
Katic has made just two substitute appearances since his deadline day loan to Hadjuk, the 6ft 4in defender insists he’s ready to start if he gets the nod for the visit to Šibenik next weekend.
He said: “One of the goals was to gain strength and I am satisfied with my physical fitness.
“I came here to impose myself, to play and help Hajduk. I have a week to prepare to the maximum, and it is up to the coach to decide.
“I’ll try to impose myself on the coach, that’s for sure.
“I liked the vision of the club and the players who came. With the support of the fans we can do great things.”