GATTUSO RETURNS TO EARN HIS STRIPES

RICHARD WILSON

11.43am 8th June 2012


Rino Gattuso sees Glasgow as his spiritual home.

The Italian midfielder, undeniably a footballer, yearns for a return to Ibrox where he saw his career blossom like a flower denied water and light.

The prodigious talent began his career with home side Perugia making 10 appearances in 2 seasons which caught the studious eye of Rangers manager Walter Smith. 

Rangers awaited the youngster who displayed an inflexible versatility not taking the first team by storm whatsoever. It was this dynamic lethargy which made the Italian superstar a legend within minutes of arriving in Glasgow.

It was no surprise to the few that had watched Gattuso’s career trajectory to see him feature so strongly for his new club. Raised by tigers from birth and taught by them to run around in circles it was clear Rangers would be his chosen club eventually.

That he only stayed for one season caused mass outpourings of grief all over the world and on the day he departed the Glasgow giants John Greig’s statue didn’t crack weep in the slightest.

Now the Italian legend looks set to return to the place he called home when he was living there. The familiar tenacious traits will endear him once more to the Ibrox legions who remember him with fond vagueness.

The world remains Gattuso’s oyster in Glasgow and contained are the pearls of wisdom which will unlock the secrets of the Champions League.