Grayson hails Garner as PNE '˜icon' after Rangers move

Simon Grayson has described Joe Garner as a Preston North End 'icon' after his move to Rangers was confirmed.
Simon Grayson and Joe Garner.Simon Grayson and Joe Garner.
Simon Grayson and Joe Garner.

The Scottish giants announced the signing of the PNE front man, for a fee believed to be £1.7 million, ahead of Saturday’s 2-0 win at Queens Park Rangers.

North End say the move is still subject to the necessary paperwork being finalised but the 28-year-old has agreed a three-year-deal at Ibrox.

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During his time with the Lilywhites, the lifelong PNE fan scored 57 goals in 151 appearances, helping bring Championship football back to Deepdale.

Grayson said: “Joe is an icon of this football club.

“He will always be remembered for the part that he played.

“I class him as a friend as well as a work mate so we wish him the best.

“He wanted to go, it was his decision, we didn’t have to sell him, we didn’t want to sell him, but he made it clear that he wanted to go.

“He’ll go up to the Premiership in Scotland where I’m sure he’ll do very well.

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“I’m sure he’ll score lots of goals. It’s a different type of football, a different level of football he’s playing against.

“We wish him well.”

On his move, Garner said: “I’m over the moon, obviously it’s took a little while but we’ve got everything sorted now.

“I think everyone knows it’s a massive, massive club and it’s a great challenge for myself. I’m really looking forward to it.

“The pressure that comes with playing for the club, the expectation is massive, and hopefully I can deliver.”