Rangers: Defoe WILL make a difference says Jim White
Defoe joined Rangers on an 18-month loan deal on Sunday from Bournemouth.
The 36-year-old has struggled for minutes on the south coast this season, managing just two substitute appearances in the Premier League.
With 162 top-flight goals to his name, Defoe’s 18-yard box pedigree is undoubted, however, and that’s what attracted Gerrard and Allen - who speak regularly daily - to the former England international.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Allen told Jim White: “It’s not something that’s come about in the last week or so.
It’s not something that’s come about in the last week or so
Mark Allen
“It’s something we’ve been certainly thinking about. It’s only come to fruition in the last week.
“It was just sitting, waiting, thinking what we wanted to do in the window, and then pressing the ‘Go’ button and contacting Bournemouth.
“Bournemouth have been absolutely fantastic in this process.
“Obviously they have to think of it from their perspective, but we indicated our intent early doors and it went from there.
Rangers transfer news: Jermain Defoe was a long-term target (Image: Getty)
Rangers transfer news: Steven Davis was also signed alongside Jermain Defoe on a loan (Image: Getty)
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“I think [Defoe] is really excited, he’s looking forward to pulling the blue shirt on.
“And he’s just raring to go, get playing, and hopefully score some goals for us.
“His goalscoring record goes before him and that’s not anything that needs qualification.
“It’s a heavy factor in terms of wanting to pursue him, and long may that continue.”
Rangers have 'no intention' of Morelos transfer says Allen
Rangers transfer news: Jermain Defoe should be able to aid Alfredo Morelos (Image: Getty)
Defoe’s arrival should benefit 22-year-old star striker Alfred Morelos, who Allen admitted will most likely want to leave in the near future.
“Hopefully [he can learn a lot from Defoe],” Allen said.
“He’s got a master then in terms of goalscoring, for sure. Like we say, all the players we’re adding in will add to the overall experience and quality of the football team.”