As the new Rangers embark on their first season in the SFL Division Three, they continue to dominate the news on a daily basis, with finances and transfers being scrutinised immensely. The latest big talking point to come from Ibrox was the signing of Ian Black on a £7k p/w contract. Many questioned Black’s motives and ambition, whilst others slated Rangers and Charles Green, wondering how a club in such a perilous financial situation, could justify paying such high wages. It seems that more big earners will follow, as Dean Shiels gets set to sign later this week along with several others, who could all demand large wages.

‘Rangers latest signing has a duty to support both himself and his family’

Firstly, I find it staggering how anyone can attack Black so vigorously. I defy anyone to tell me that they wouldn’t sign for a team for £7k p/w, regardless if it is Celtic, Rangers, Kilmarnock or even Clyde. Black has a family and it is imperative that he gets the best deal for himself in order to support his family. In any walk of life, be that joiner, plumber or lawyer, you are going to work for the most money, get the best deal possible and it just so happened that Black’s best deal came from a club in the echelons of Division Three. It was not long ago that Black was actually out helping his friend who was a painter, as Hearts were hit with wage problems last season. He will not be set for life and has been given an opportunity to support his family just now and possibly beyond his football career.

Secondly, Black also knows that he could be a part of something special, one of the few who stuck it out with Rangers in the lowest league in Scotland and was there as they worked their way back up to the SPL. If the move works out the right way, with him playing to his potential, he has the chance to become a club legend. The fans will not forget the few who showed loyalty to the team.

Of course Black’s ambition has taken a hit, in the short-term anyway, but I think this move was largely down to him getting the best deal possible for someone who knows what it is like to be hit with money problems. He is still relatively young, at 27, so the chances of him being with Rangers for the next three or four years is very good. His chance in the SPL will definitely come again.

Remember, after this transfer window, Rangers are unable to sign any players over the age of 18 for more than a year. Ally McCoist has to build a team for an assault on Division Three and then for the start of the next season, be that in Division Three or Division Two. The signing of Black will ensure they are solid in the middle of the park and give stability for a couple of years as they look to bounce straight back up.

What do you make of Black’s move to Rangers? Agree or disagree? Tweet @bbopshakur or please comment below.