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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Robbie Hanratty

Gheorghe Hagi reflects on Ianis’ growth as Rangers star overcomes tough times

Gheorghe Hagi has praised son Ianis for refusing to give in during his troubles at Rangers.

The former Real Madrid and Barcelona superstar turned 60 this week and was in Glasgow over the festive period to watch Ianis, who is back as a key player for Rangers.

Hagi junior was in the football wilderness at Ibrox after a contract dispute and a serious knee injury, but has won plenty of praise since his return to Philippe Clement's side.

And Hagi senior reckons it shows his son has a strong mentality.

He said: "I'm glad Ianis didn't give in at Rangers. He knew what he wanted. And he found a lot of warmth in the Romanian national team too which helped.

"When he produced good things in that team, it's clear that it helped him come back stronger to Rangers.


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"He overcame a difficult situation there and he proved that he's mature.

"I've given Ianis enough advice in his life. He's grown up now. Everything is on his own time. He listened, he did well, he's reached a beautiful age. 

"For Romania, they know what they have to do in the dressing room, where there is a special manager in Mircea Lucescu.

"They have an extraordinary group of players and they can't let this chance slip through their fingers. I firmly believe and predict they can do better than we did at the 1994 World Cup.

"You go to the national team with your heart and soul. Playing for your country is the most beautiful thing possible."

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