MATT CROOKS has admitted he didn't know much about the Scottish game before signing for Rangers, but thinks the Old Firm is the biggest fixture in world football.
The midfielder signed on a pre-contract agreement this summer from League Two side Accrington Stanley, along with teammate Josh Windass.
He revealed that he's learning about the game north of the border and is enthusiastic about the prospect of battling for the title, European football and Old Firm dominance at Ibrox next season.
The Light Blues are currently on a pre-season training tour in Charleston, USA, where Crooks spoke to Rangers TV.
“I probably didn’t know quite as much as I should about Scottish football, but I’m sure I’ll learn in the coming days and weeks," he said.
"I almost went to Ross County on loan when I was 17, but beyond that I only really know about Rangers and Celtic.
“The Old Firm games are the biggest in world football, and the atmosphere is on a different level although the lads have said to expect it to be even better at Ibrox and Parkhead.
“We have a chance of qualifying for Europe too, so that’s really something to aim for.
“I know the responsibility that comes with playing for Rangers, but I relish that and look forward to playing in front of big crowds.”
Crooks scored eight goals in 35 appearances from midfield for Accrington last season, but was eager to stress his versatility on the park.
He said: “Last season I played in centre-midfield and really enjoyed playing in that position. I played centre-half for Huddersfield so can play there, but I’ve been used to centre-mid, but wherever I play, I’m happy just so long as I’m in the team.
“Competition is healthy. If we are all pushing together in the one direction then it’s only going to help us as a collective.
“It was strange sitting next to Niko [Kranjcar] on the plane as I grew up watching him, but playing alongside guys like him is only going to improve me as a player.”
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