Dan Neil’s first words after Rangers win Southampton race for ex-Sunderland captain | OneFootball

Rangers have confirmed the free transfer of former Sunderland captain Dan Neil, who has delivered his first reaction to the move. According to Sunderland Echo, the 24-year-old chose Ibrox amid Southampton interest after leaving Wearside this summer.

Neil said he is really excited about a new chapter and is eager to see what the next few years bring. He views Rangers as a club with demands similar to Sunderland’s, something he believes will drive him to give 110 per cent every day.

South Shields-born, he came through the Academy of Light and made 201 senior appearances for Sunderland, scoring 12 goals. A former England youth international, he arrives with significant EFL and Premier League experience.

He helped win promotion from League One in 2022, then captained Régis Le Bris’ side to the Premier League via the 2024-25 play-offs. Wearing the armband at Wembley, he led Sunderland to a 2-1 win over Sheffield United, made 47 league appearances and scored twice, before a loan to Ipswich Town for the second half of last season. He played 16 Championship games as the Tractor Boys sealed promotion at the first attempt.

Manager Derek McInnes views Neil as a technically gifted, energetic midfielder, strong in possession and capable of contributing goals. He says Rangers are getting a hungry, ambitious 24-year-old with notable experience and leadership, having captained Sunderland to top-flight promotion in 2025.

Source: Sunderland Echo