Cyriel Dessers has given an insight to the big role fellow Super Eagles star Leon Balogun played to get him sign for Scottish giants Rangers.
Dessers, 28,has signed a four-year contract with Rangers from relegated Serie A club US Cremonese.
“Obviously, I’m really happy. It’s a big relief to finally be here. There have been some long days, stressful days, but it’s a great feeling to finally be here,” Dessers said.
“I spoke with my team-mate from the Nigerian national team, Leon Balogun, about the club. He was very positive about it.
“Very positive about the club, the coach, the staff, all the people around, the city. For me, that was an affirmation to go through with it.
“The history of the club, the fans, the stadium – everything is massive here. But next to that, of course I look at what’s here at this moment.
“I had really good talks with Mr Beale about his plans, the ideas he wants on the pitch and off the pitch.
“I thought it could be a really good fit for me and the team so I’m happy to be here.”
Rangers have friendly fixtures with Newcastle United, Hamburg, Olympiacos and Hoffenheim before the big kick-off.
Dessers is also set to lead the line during the upcoming Champions League qualifiers and Beale said: “We are delighted to have Cyriel joining our club.
“He brings a lot of experience from playing in Holland, Belgium and Italy, as well as in European competitions.
“We were looking for a very specific profile and believe that Cyriel will give us a variety of qualities both in and out of possession.
“When we met, we spoke at length about his alignment to our style of play and the other forwards we have in our squad.”
Please can l have your autographs & newsleters