National Teams

Dan Neil: Rangers sign midfielder from Sunderland on a three-year deal

Dan Neil has signed a three-year contract with Rangers after leaving Sunderland, where he spent eight years. He aims to meet the high expectations of Rangers fans.

Jul 1, 2026, 11:24 PMSergio Salazar11 lượt xem

Dan Neil hopes to feel "very much the same" as he tries to live up to expectations after joining Rangers from Sunderland on a three-year contract. The former England U20 international, 24, left the Black Cats on a free transfer after eight years, having spent the second half of last season on loan in the Championship with Ipswich Town. As well as recruiting new manager Derek McInnes from Hearts, Rangers have also signed defenders Ben Godfrey and Ross McCrorie, striker Lawrence Shankland and goalkeeper Ivor Pandur this summer. “This is a new chapter for myself,” Neil said. "I played for Sunderland for many years and the pressure and expectation of the fans to win every week coupled with the feeling of making or ruining everyone's weekend is what drives me. I've spoken to many people who have been here and they say it's a very similar feeling, and as a personality and a person, it really drives me to give 110% every day, and I need that in my career." Neil made 201 appearances for boyhood club Sunderland after coming through the club's academy. The midfielder played for the Black Cats from League One to the Premier League but has struggled to find opportunities in the top flight following their promotion from the Championship. "He is a technically sound midfielder, strong in possession, can contribute goals and brings great energy to the team," McInnes said. "At 24, we are signing a player who is hungry and ambitious, but already possesses considerable experience and leadership qualities, having led Sunderland to promotion to the Premier League in 2025.