Born: Istanbul (Turkey), 24/8/1970

TUGAY KERIMOGLU became the first ever Turk to play in Scottish football when Rangers shelled out £1.3million for his services.

A hero in his home country, Tugay had spent an incredible 14 years with Galatasaray and now the 29-year-old midfielder is carving out a new life in Scotland at Ibrox.

When the Turkish international decided to make the move overseas, Gers had to battle against Newcastle, Benfica, Real Zaragoza and Valencia to land his signature. But with a recommendation from former Light Blues and Galatasaray boss Graeme Souness, no less, Dick Advocaat managed to persuade the highly-talented player to come to Glasgow. Tugay said: "I was one of the best players in the Galatasaray team but I now have to prove to myself and the rest of the world that I can be the best at another club.

"I know the Galatasaray fans will always love me and that is something I will always be thankful for.

"But I needed a new challenge. I'm not the kind of person to sit around and be happy with an easy life.

"I could have stayed in Turkey and wallowed in my own name but I don't want the easy life, I want to show everyone that I can succeed in Europe with Rangers."

After making his debut as a substitute in the 5-0 win against Aberdeen in January, he scored his first goal, a penalty against Motherwell in the 6-2 in March.

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