Todd Cantwell has backed Kieran Dowell to become a Rangers fan favourite if his Norwich reunion goes through.
Carrow Road playmaker Dowell has been linked with a summer switch to Ibrox with, Record Sport's sister title the Sunday Mail reporting a three-year deal has been agreed. That would pave the way for former Canaries ace Cantwell to hook up once again with his former team-mate.
The pair were feted as heroes in East Anglia after helping the Yellows romp to Championship title glory in 2021. And Cantwell reckons the 25-year-old will be just as well received by the Light Blues legions if he makes the move north in the coming weeks. He said: “Kieran’s a good player. He’s someone I enjoyed playing with, we had success at Norwich and he’s a top lad.
“None of that is really to do with me. It’s the manager's choice, the club's choice and his choice. If that is something that happens then I’m sure the Rangers fans will be happy.
“We’ve got everything to play for next season and the hunger in the dressing room will be real. Whoever comes in, whoever leaves, whoever is there playing for Rangers, it’s important to know you’ll be fighting for your spot and to win every game. “
Cantwell has settled in swiftly at Ibrox and his influence on Michael Beale’s team is growing by the week. The former England Under-21 international netted his third goal for his new side in Sunday’s win over Aberdeen and he reckons other Championship stars would do well to consider a move to Scotland if the chance is presented.
He said: “Yeah, but you need a club that wants you first! It’s important you weigh up your opportunities. I can only speak for myself but it was a massive decision but also one that I’m really proud of making.
“That’s because it’s not particularly common but I saw it as a great opportunity come up here and show what I’m about. I’m really enjoying myself. I feel physically fit and it’s my job to perform well when I’m here. Pre-season is always important. I know the manager is looking at recruitment but it’s also important for us as individuals to get your body in the right condition.”
Beale’s team have four games left of their defeating campaign but Cantwell is looking forward to coming back refreshed for next season - when he aims to continue his hot-streak in front of goal. He said: “Playing for Rangers, you’ve got a big responsibility. This season hasn’t gone how we wanted to go so it’s important to come back and change the outcome next year.
“Goals are important. I’ve always been confident in front of goal and I feel like when I’ll get chances then I’ll take them. It’s important to show that here and get numbers.”
Looking back at the sweet strike that sealed victory over the Dons, he added: “We had a corner just before and I said to Soutts (John Souttar) that I’m by myself so if it goes over your head then just block him. It’s almost like Tav (James Tavernier) heard because he put it in the same place and the technique did the rest.”
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