Ryan Kent 'promise' to Rangers tugs at heartstrings as free agent splits diehards into two camps

Ryan Kent's abrupt departure from Fenerbahce has got some Rangers fans calling for the winger to make a dream return to Ibrox.

The Englishman only swapped Govan for the Turkish capital at the start of last season, but endured a miserable spell in Istanbul where he was restricted to just 18 appearances in all competitions. The arrival of Jose Mourinho was the writing on the wall for Kent, and after a move away from the club failed to materialise, the two parties have now decided to rip up the remainder of his contract - which still had nearly three years left to run.

The former Liverpool youngster scored 33 goals in 218 for the Light Blues and was a key cog in the Rangers team under Steven Gerrard that stopped Celtic's quest for 10 in a row by lifting the Premiership title in 2021. Kent often divided opinion among supporters at Ibrox, but his heartfelt tribute upon leaving the club has forever endeared him to some sections of the fanbase. Penning an emotional tribute to Gers fans after his departure in June 2023, Kent wrote: "Thank you to all the Rangers fans. My time at Ibrox is something I will remember for the rest of my life.

"As a Liverpool academy player, I followed Steven (Gerrard) and Mick (Beale) on loan - but that soon became 5 years as I immediately fell in love with the club and fans and have made some memories that I will look back on with great happiness.

"As a kid, it is a dream to play in European competitions, and win leagues and cups, but to do that in front of the Ibrox crowds is something else entirely, it’s a privilege. And to all my teammates, management team and backroom staff past and present, thank you for everything and I’ll miss you all.

"Now it is time for me to begin an exciting new chapter in my career and continue my footballing journey as a player elsewhere - but I will forever carry Rangers in my heart. I look forward to cheering you on to success in the SPL next season. Simply The Best."

Kent was praised for the sincerity on show, despite criticisms over his final product, fans remained on his side. The 27-year-old reportedly picked up a wage packet of €54,423 a week at Fenerbahce (£45,179 p/w), but having made his money in Turkey, could potentially be open to a return to Ibrox, while it remains to be seen if interest will come from elsewhere. However, the old adage in football is that you should never go back, and other Rangers fans will argue that a reunion with the wide man just isn't meant to be.

Click here to read article