'Most influential' – Brentford loanee Meghoma reveals who convinced him to join Rangers

Rangers defender Jayden Meghoma has revealed that manager Russell Martin played a key role in convincing him to join the Scottish club this summer.

The 19-year-old, who arrived on season-long loan from Premier League side Brentford, made his debut in the UEFA Champions League playoff defeat to Club Brugge on August 19

Despite the result, Meghoma impressed the Ibrox crowd with a strong performance, providing the assist for Danilo’s second-half goal.

Speaking ahead of Rangers’ clash with St. Mirren in Paisley, the youngster praised Martin’s influence, describing him as instrumental to his growth and decision to move to Glasgow.

"He was the most influential part of [my move] because he was the one who gave me my debut," Meghoma told Rangers' official website. 

"He knows how I play because I’ve played with him for a long time. He’s one of the biggest parts as to why I’m here.”  

Despite concerns about the timing of the transfer, he said he was pleased to make his debut against Club Brugge, adding that he had always known he would be in the starting lineup

"I knew that I was playing from the start. A lot of people were saying I was thrown into the deep end, but it wasn’t that. I was always excited to come here and play football."

He further stressed that his close relationship with the manager has helped him quickly adapt to the team’s tactics and philosophy.

"I knew the gaffer previously from Southampton. It was quite quick in terms of that, and the transition happened within days. I was ready to play because of my pre-season which was the most important part," he added.

While discussions continue about the return leg against Club Brugge, he noted that the team’s immediate focus is on securing a win over St. Mirren on Sunday.

"For us, we’re always focusing on the next game. Club Brugge is the second game and St. Mirren is next, so that’s where our full focus lies.

“Rangers are such a big club and the expectations are so high. I knew what I was coming into when I came here. It’s up to us as players to recorrect our wrongs.”

Meghoma arrived at Rangers after an impressive loan spell with Preston North End last season.

Meanwhile, the young full-back will be aiming to continue his development at Ibrox and strengthen his case for a first-team role at Brentford next season.

Adeyemi Adewale

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