'Gerrard's phone call convinced me to move to Rangers' - Barisic

New Rangers signing Borna Barisic has revealed that a personal phone call from Steven Gerrard convinced him that Ibrox was the place for him. 

Barisic, 25, has played the bulk of his career at left-back for Croatia's Osijek, while also appearing three times for the Croatia national team. 

It was in a Europa League clash against Rangers in August, however, that the player came to prominence, scoring at Ibrox to convince the Scottish side of his talents despite a 2-1 aggregate defeat.

Now he is gearing up for a new challenge after completing a reported £2.2 million to the Glasgow giants, with Gerrard's presence on the bench a big incentive. 

"The club, the coach and the fans, they all wanted me and that made me decide to join Rangers. Although I had offers from England, Italy and France," Barisic explained to Goal in an exclusive interview. 

"After our second match versus Rangers in the Europa League, I received a call from an unknown number and the man said, 'Hello, my name is Steven Gerrard'!

"It was amazing! I immediately told him it was an honour for me even to talk to such legend, and yes, I would like to join him in Glasgow.

"As I arrived, he welcomed me and told me to be ready to make my debut this weekend. And on social networks I have received thousands of welcoming messages from Rangers fans."

Rangers' bitter Glasgow rivals Celtic start as overwhelming favourites to win their eight consecutive Scottish Premiership title, a run that coincides in part with the Gers' forced relegation to the fourth tier of Scottish football in 2012 and subsequent rise back up the pyramid. 

But Barisic believes that he and his new team-mates have to set their sights on wresting the crown back from Parkhead.

"We, as well as our fans, dream of the title and to play the Europa League group stage. We know of course, it will be difficult to fight Celtic and Aberdeen for the domestic title," he added.

Rangers kicked off their 2018-19 league campaign with a 1-1 draw away to Aberdeen, and continue this weekend by hosting St. Mirren on Sunday.