Jon Daly is close to becoming the first footballer from the Republic of Ireland to represent Rangers in a competitive match in 80 years. The 30 year old Dubliner is is expected to sign a pre-contract agreement to join the club on a free transfer from Dundee United for the start of next season.
Back in March, Daly spoke to the Daily Record about the then proposed move.
“I was told about the historic aspect to this move, if it happens, and I was surprised.
But it doesn’t bother me. I’ve spoken to my family about Rangers’ interest in me and there are no issues there for them to deal with so far as I’m concerned."
Alex Ferguson claimed in his autobiography that he was discriminated against while playing for Rangers because his wife was Catholic and the club were said to have an "unwritten rule" against signing Catholic players. Former Celtic player Mo Johnston was Rangers' first high profile Roman Catholic signing in 1989 and Catholic players have since become common place at the club. In 1999 Lorenzo Amoruso became the first Catholic captain of Rangers.
It is still troubling though that as recently as last February Rangers were forced to apologise for their fans' sectarian chanting.
