Murphy is at Ibrox for keeps with new deal

RANGERS last night concluded their third summer addition as Jamie Murphy signed a three-year contract to make a permanent switch to Ibrox. The winger moved north from Brighton in January on a loan deal until the end of the season, with agreement reached in principle for a £1million-plus transfer to follow. That arrangement has now been finalised to see Murphy, 28, join Scott Arfield and Allan McGregor in being added to Steven Gerrard’s plans ahead of next season. The club are also continuing their pursuit of Fenerbahce defender Martin Skrtel. ‘I’m delighted to make my move to Rangers permanent,’ said Murphy. ‘This club means a lot to me and it already feels like home. ‘Whilst I’m disappointed we didn’t complete the objectives we set last season, I am more determined than ever to help this club to be a success. ‘With the new manager in place and two new signings confirmed already, I can’t wait to get started on the next chapter of my Rangers career.’ Gerrard, who takes charge on June 1, said: ‘It’s more good news for the club that Jamie has committed his future to us. He had an impressive start to his Rangers career in the second half of last season and we hope to see him continue to grow at the club next season and beyond.’ Murphy is part of the Scotland squad that will fly out next week for friendlies against Peru and Mexico. But McGregor yesterday pulled out of those games, with Celtic goalkeeper Scott Bain called up in his place.