David Templeton last night rejected claims by Hearts that he "had switched off completely" this year and had been determined to force a move out of the Tynecastle club.
The Rangers winger, who scored two goals on his debut in a 5-1 defeat of Elgin City yesterday, was criticised in a statement by Hearts after he signed for Rangers on Friday. Hearts accused the player of a lack of focus and determination since January and said that Paulo Sergio, the former manager, had "issues" with the attitude of the player, which resulted in his absence from the Scottish Cup final squad.
"They are only doing it to cover themselves and I'm just looking forward to being here," Templeton said. "I was there for five-and-a-half years and I gave everything no matter what and I'll do that whatever club I play for."
Admitting he had been hurt, he added: "I don't see joining Rangers as a lack of ambition. It shows my ambition as I want to help Rangers get back to where they belong."
Ally McCoist, who indicated dissatisfaction with Rangers' transfer dealings, backed his recruit, saying: "I don't want to get involved – but every player who has left this club has gone with our best wishes. Maybe that's the way to do it but I don't want to get involved in a slagging match. I don't claim to know David well but I don't see him having an attitude problem."
Of his transfer activities, he noted: "I said before I would have been happier with four or five in. We got one or two in and one out. The maths would tell you I am not particularly happy."
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