Rangers news: Kyle Lafferty has re-joined the Gers (Image: GETTY)
The striker, 30, is back on the Ibrox books six years after he quit for Swiss outfit Sion on a free transfer when the club went into financial meltdown.
Lafferty’s second coming at Rangers follows a fruitful year at Hearts, and he feels he has unfinished business.
The Northern Ireland international could start tonight’s Europa League play-off first leg against Ufa after being registered as a wildcard signing.
Lafferty said: “I have supported the club since I was a kid and have played here before, but the way I left I was disappointed. Walking out those doors six years ago broke my heart, but to be given a second chance to redeem myself... I jumped at the chance. I am happy to be home.
Walking out those doors six years ago broke my heart
Kyle Lafferty
“I always wanted to come back and put things right and show the fans what I am all about.
“Did I think I would get another chance? Not really. I went to Hearts last season and had a good season and now I have been given a second chance, which I am lucky to have.”
Boss Steven Gerrard insists his latest recruit’s role at Ibrox will be as a centre-forward, even though Lafferty’s versatility often led to Hearts deploying him on the wing or in a deeper role behind the main striker.
Lafferty added: “It has been a long time since we have seen a Rangers team like this, so it is exciting times ahead.
“I wanted to be part of this because they are heading in the right direction and I want to be involved in winning trophies with Rangers.
Rangers news: Lafferty quit for Swiss outfit Sion six years ago (Image: GETTY)
“I want to be here for success and with the squad of players that we have here we will do that.”
Lafferty bagged three titles, a Scottish Cup and two League Cups during his first spell at Rangers.
With 20 goals in 67 caps, it’s easy to see why Gerrard has no qualms about Lafferty leading the line on his own or being a strike partner for Alfredo Morelos.
Gerrard said: “It gives me the option to play with two number nines up front and lots of other options that excite me. There’s no risk with him performing in front of the crowds and dealing with the demands of the club and he brings vital experience to us.
“He ticks all the boxes in terms of what I want from a frontman.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Rangers: Chris Sutton warns Kyle Lafferty is a ‘loose cannon’
“I’m a big fan of his. He’s a Rangers nut and knows what this club is about and is desperate to be a success.”
Hearts rejected Rangers’ opening offer of £250,000 and made it clear they would not accept Lee Wallace back in a player-plus-cash deal.
The Jambos eventually agreed to sell once the Light Blues got closer to their valuation of £750,000.
Hearts owner Ann Budge said: “While we have no desire to sell our players to other teams in the league, when a player has his mind fully set on moving it is difficult to reach an alternative conclusion.
“This has been a particularly difficult and drawn-out affair.”