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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Mark Walker

Hamza Igamane makes 'adapting has not been easy' Rangers confession

Rangers star Hamza Igamane revealed the passion of their Old Firm success proved to him he had made it at Ibrox.

The Moroccan striker has been a huge signing for Philippe Clement's side and netted his 13th goal of the season against Aberdeen last week.

He looks certain to be included in World Cup semi-finalist Morocco's squad in March for their World Cup double-header with Niger and Tanzania.

And, in an interview with French magazine Onze Mondial, Igamane revealed how much he relished that 3-0 win against Celtic.

He said: "It was a great derby and in such matches you can feel the passion and enthusiasm of the fans.

"There is a strong rivalry between the two clubs and when you are there, you recognise the enormous will to win on the pitch. 

"As for the atmosphere in the stands, it was great for me personally, I enjoyed the match a lot. It felt like I belonged there.

"Rangers are a club with a long history and thank God, I have started my first adventure at a club in Europe well. Adapting has not been easy.


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"I have been able to score many goals despite the difference between Morocco and Scotland, but that is part of the life of a footballer. 

"The climate in particular is very different. Now it is up to me to do even better.

"I am proud of my background and proud that I used to wear the jersey of RAS Fabat - the army club and one of oldest Moroccan clubs. 

"The Moroccan league is seeing continuous development despite some challenges, especially in terms of infrastructure and organisation, but it is one of the best leagues in Africa."

And he's desperate for his first international call-up.

He admitted: "Every kid in Morocco dreams of playing for the national team and I am no different.

"But of course, there are many talented players in Morocco and the competition is great.

"I know that I still have time to work hard to attract the manager’s attention. I hope to be able to represent Morocco in tournaments.

"As of now, I have not received any official contact from the Moroccan Federation yet, but I am focused on my work at the club and I know that I have to do more to convince manager Walid Regragui."

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