Connor Goldson is already impressing at Aris Limassol, with manager Aleksey Shpilevsky highlighting the strong leadership qualities the former Rangers defender has displayed.
Goldson departed Ibrox last month after a six-year spell at the club. During that period, the dominant centre-back won the Scottish Premiership, a Scottish Cup and Scottish League Cup throughout over 300 appearances in Light Blue.
His departure has helped free up wages for Rangers’ Philippe Clement to continue his summer rebuild, but it appears Goldson has had no problem settling into life across the continent.
The 31-year-old made his debut for the Cypriot First Division outfit during a pre-season friendly against FC Heidenheim on Saturday and led by example despite barely even having an opportunity to integrate with his teammates beforehand.
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“I very much like what I have seen from Connor already,” the Aris Limassol head coach said as he reflected on the club’s pre-season tour in Austria.
“He is exactly what this team needed - a leader. He has it in his character.
“He made his debut and had only trained for a day after his transfer and was yelling and directing his teammates.
“That’s exactly the type of player we were looking for and he will be a very important player for us on and off the pitch this season.
“We have managed to keep the main players in the squad and added really important ones like Connor. And there is still time to bring in more players too.”
Aris Limassol lost that warm-up match 2-1, and beforehand eagle-eyed punters noticed Goldson opted to snub the teams ‘Celtic style’ huddle and instead stood with his arms by his side. Giving a nod that he won’t forget where his allegiance lies. Even if his new employers wear green and white.
