Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
ARFIELD OF DREAMS
Midfielder believes Gerrard will attract top drawer stars
SCOTT ARFIELD is adamant his hero Steven Gerrard will inspire a stampede of stars to join Rangers.
The 29-year-old was full of pride yesterday having been announced as his midfield idol’s first signing on a four-year deal from Burnley.
Arfield says Gerrard’s arrival at Ibrox has rocketed interest in the club south of the border.
And the Canadian international is convinced more players from the English Premier League will be tempted to follow his path to join the former England skipper.
Arfield said: “Steven
Gerrard will definitely attract top players.
“Rangers already had that appeal because they are a top club but I think it enhances the situation.
“The stature of him suits a club of this stature. He was my hero.
“I was fortunate enough to play against him and getting that different aspect of off-the-field advice now as well as the on-the-field experience can only enhance you as a player and a person.”
Gerrard (inset) outlined his delight at the capture and Arfield has made no secret of the fact he’s thrilled to be the first in the door on the gaffer’s watch.
He added: “Of course there is pride to have that.
“I also think it is only going to go one way because these are exciting times and I fully think this club is going to be so successful.
“There were a few other options in England but, as soon as a club of this magnitude came in, then it was something that appealed to me and my family. It was a no-brainer.
“Working for Steven Gerrard and Gary Mcallister is going to be fantastic and I want to show people in Scotland how much I have improved.
“I’m coming back as a natural leader. When I went down there I was almost like a wee boy.
“If you can’t handle the expectation at a club like this then it’s not for you but I believe that I can do that.
“I hope to soak up as much as I can from Steven Gerrard. Playing against him was one of the highlights of my career.
“He is easily in the top two or three players that have been in my generation.
“I will listen to everything he and his staff tell me and hopefully take it all in and take things to the next level.
“It’s great that he had green-lighted the signing. I’m buzzing.
“Mates of mine have played at Rangers and I have current mates here, so I know the level of expectation and responsibility.
“I’m ready for it and I hope it’s as successful as my time in England.”