“Something needs to change. I have Unfinished Business with them…” – Jermain Defoe Speaks on RETURNING to Rangers; reveals he wants to make Rangers STRONG again, to defeat other opponents, including Celtic.

Jermain Defoe Open to Returning to Rangers as He Reflects on Team’s Struggles

Jermain Defoe, the former Rangers striker, has expressed his desire to return to the club in some capacity, citing his strong bond with both the club and its fanbase. Since leaving Ibrox in 2022, Defoe has been closely following Rangers’ progress and admits that the team’s decline has been difficult for him to witness.

In a recent interview, Defoe shared his thoughts on Rangers’ current struggles and his willingness to help the club if given the opportunity. “It would be an easy decision for me to come back to Rangers,” Defoe said. “The club is amazing, and I’ve always had a special relationship with the fans.”

Defoe’s Reflection on Rangers’ Decline

Defoe first joined Rangers in 2019, initially as a player and later transitioning into a player-coach role during Steven Gerrard’s tenure. His contributions on and off the field helped Rangers end Celtic’s dominance by winning the Scottish Premiership in 2021. However, since his departure, Defoe has observed what he describes as a regression within the team.

Reflecting on his time at Rangers and their performances since, Defoe said, “We won the league when I had the player-coach role, and after I left, the boys came so close to winning the Europa League. I thought they would kick on from there, but it’s actually gone the other way. It’s been tough to watch.”

Defoe has continued to follow Rangers closely and frequently visits Glasgow, where he keeps in touch with some of the current first-team players. However, he remains concerned about the club’s recent form. “You look at the points Rangers dropped last season, and these are games you’d expect them to win convincingly,” he noted. “Something clearly needs to change. The players need to find their form again.”

The Appeal of a Return to Rangers

While Defoe is disappointed by Rangers’ recent struggles, he remains optimistic about the club’s future and is keen to contribute to its resurgence. “If I had the opportunity to come back to Rangers at some stage, it would be an easy decision,” Defoe said. “I feel like I have unfinished business there, and it’s a club I love deeply.”

During his time at Rangers, Defoe began working towards his coaching qualifications, initially completing his coaching badges while at the club. “I spent a lot of time with Steven Gerrard and Michael Beale talking about coaching,” he said. “I started my coaching badges with Rangers and completed my A-license at Tottenham. Last year, I even had a conversation with Rangers about returning in some role, and I told them I’d love to come back.”

For Defoe, a return to Rangers could be the next step in his coaching career. He believes that he could make a positive impact on the team, drawing on his experience as both a player and a coach. “I’ve always been passionate about coaching, and Rangers is the perfect place for me to continue developing in that area,” he added.

Rangers’ Struggles Since Defoe’s Departure

Rangers have endured a difficult period since Defoe’s exit. Although they reached the Europa League final in 2022, where they narrowly lost to Eintracht Frankfurt, the team has struggled to maintain consistency in the domestic league. The points dropped last season saw them fall behind Celtic in the title race, and they have not been able to replicate the dominant performances that brought them success under Gerrard.

Defoe’s criticism of the team’s decline comes from a place of loyalty and concern. “It’s hard to see a club like Rangers not performing to their potential,” he said. “I still watch every game, and it’s clear that something isn’t clicking. The players are talented, but they need to regain their confidence and belief. I feel like I could help with that.”

Potential Role for Defoe at Ibrox

If Defoe were to return to Rangers, his role would likely be in a coaching or advisory capacity, where he could share his vast experience and knowledge of the game. Defoe’s experience playing in the Premier League, as well as his time at Rangers, makes him well-suited to mentor younger players and help them adapt to the high demands of playing for a top club.

Defoe’s coaching style, influenced by his years working with some of the best managers in the game, could provide the tactical insight and motivational guidance Rangers need. His familiarity with the club’s culture and the expectations of the fans would also make him a valuable asset in helping to restore the winning mentality that seems to have waned since his departure.

For the club, bringing Defoe back in a non-playing capacity could offer several benefits. His presence would likely galvanize the squad, and his ability to relate to both the coaching staff and the players could help bridge any gaps in communication. Moreover, Defoe’s return would be welcomed by the fans, who hold him in high regard for his contributions during his time at Ibrox.

The Fans’ Relationship with Defoe

Rangers fans have always had a special bond with Defoe, and many would be thrilled to see him return to the club in a new role. His professionalism, dedication, and leadership on and off the pitch earned him the respect of supporters, and his continued affection for the club has only strengthened that connection.

Defoe’s potential return could help reinvigorate the fanbase and restore a sense of unity at the club. “The fans at Rangers are incredible,” Defoe said. “They deserve a team that competes at the highest level, and I want to be part of helping the club get back to where it belongs.”

Conclusion

Jermain Defoe’s willingness to return to Rangers highlights his enduring connection to the club and his desire to see it succeed. With the team struggling to find form and consistency, Defoe’s experience and passion for the club could provide the spark needed to reignite their performances.

As both a coach and a mentor, Defoe could play a key role in helping Rangers’ players develop and regain their confidence. His bond with the club’s supporters and his understanding of the high expectations at Ibrox make him an ideal candidate for a return to the club in a non-playing capacity.

Ultimately, Defoe’s return would not only benefit Rangers on the pitch but also help restore the spirit and culture that have been missing since his departure. If given the opportunity, Defoe could help lead the club back to success, fulfilling his desire to contribute to Rangers’ resurgence and cementing his legacy at Ibrox.