Bafana Bafana international Bongani Zungu has completed a dramatic deadline day loan move to Scottish giants Rangers FC.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was linked with a move to the Steven Gerrard coached Scottish Premiership side for some time now however, Bongani Zungu had to wait until the eleventh hour to secure his eagerly-anticipated deal.
Bongani Zungu joins Rangers on a season-long loan deal with an option to make permanent from French Ligue 2 side Amiens.
Bongani Zungu raring to go for Rangers
The midfield maestro has opened up regarding his dramatic loan move admitting he’s buoyed by the incentive of playing continental football in Europe for a team of such pedigree.
“I have studied the squad and feel I can come in and bring my attributes to help the team improve. The chance to play for such a big club especially in European competitions is very exciting for me.” Bongani Zungu told the club’s official website.
“I can’t wait to fly to Scotland and meet my new team mates. I know that I will settle in Glasgow and am looking forward to getting started as soon as possible. I really want the fans to be proud of my performances and will always give 100 per-cent for my new team.
“Rangers is a global club and I know there are already many supporters across Africa. I am looking forward to playing in front of a big crowd and audiences across the world.”
COVID-19 affected Bongani Zungu deal
Rangers’ Sporting Director, Ross Wilson admitted that the lengthy lockdown in South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic was one of the stumbling blocks in securing the services of Bongani Zungu during the earlier stages of the transfer window.
“Bongani is a player whose situation we have monitored throughout the window.” – Wilson said.
“We are excited to have him join Rangers. Following a difficult and prolonged period of lockdown in South Africa, it would have been hard for him to have joined us at an earlier stage of the window.
“However, we have kept an open and positive dialogue with Bongani Zungu and Amiens, and the structure of this agreement works well for all parties.”
Gerrard excited by arrival of the talented midfielder
“Bongani Zungu fits the profile of player that adds further strength and depth to our midfield. We made it clear that we wanted a player who will enhance our squad and starting XI. We believe Bongani does this.” – Manager Steven Gerrard said.
“We wanted a dominant midfielder with the right profile who can enhance the team and compliment other players we have. We have monitored this situation all summer and now feel it’s the right time.”
Rangers currently sit atop the Scottish Premiership standings and take on arch rivals Celtic on Saturday afternoon. It remains to be seen whether Bongani Zungu will be registered and passed fit in time to partake in the crunch clash.
