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Mexer reveals reasons for Ibrox snub

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Image for Mexer reveals reasons for Ibrox snub

Former Rangers target Edson Mexer has revealed that his decision to move to Bordeaux instead of a deal at Ibrox were “not down to money”.

Football Insider reported on Wednesday that Steven Gerrard’s side had offered the Mozambique international centre-back a long-term deal, but a day later his former club’s Ligue 1 rivals confirmed his capture via their official Twitter account.

Speaking to Web Girondins, the 30-year-old defender explained that he was persuaded by the “leader” role he had been offered by Bordeaux.

“It was not a question of money,” Mexer stated. “[Bordeaux manager] Paulo Sousa called me and told me about his very ambitious project, he told me that I was his number one choice in central defence and he wanted to make me a leader of his team.

“I felt his attachment and the willingness of the club who did not hesitate to offer me a four-year contract. At my age, it’s a parameter that counts.

“It is above all great proof of his confidence. Of course, money counts for a footballer, but ambitions are also important.”

OPINION

So it would seem as if Mexer found a sweeter deal at Bordeaux than the one he had been offered. From the player’s quotes, it looks like Gerrard had told the player that while he would get regular game time, he would not be the leader in his team as he would – and now will be – at Bordeaux. And it’s no wonder. Gerrard has plenty of solid defenders including Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic, so it’s not the end of the world that the Ibrox club have missed out on him. But at 30 years of age, it is natural for a player to want a long contract and be settled at a club rather than have to fight for a place from the bench. He is not getting any younger and needs a proper place in a team. Gerrard will just have to hope that the targets he scouts in the future don’t snub him for the same reasons.

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