Leanne Crichton reveals Rangers move was one of her 'toughest ever decisions'

The 72-time Scotland cap is the new head coach of Rangers' women's side after leaving Glasgow City

Leanne Crichton admitted leaving Glasgow City for Rangers might have been the toughest decision she's ever had to make in football.

But now she's been officially unveiled as the new women's team boss at Ibrox, she's out to make them Scottish football's dominant force.

Crichton is one of the most recognisable faces in the women's game having played 72 times for Scotland and, after completing her UEFA Pro License this summer, she had been working with Leanne Ross at Glasgow City until the offer from Rangers arrived.

She replaces Jo Potter who left for Crystal Palace after winning both cups last season but coming up short in the SWPL, finishing third behind champions Hibs and City.

''Making the decision wasn't an easy one,” she said in a Glasgow City statement. “It is one that has brought the most emotion I have ever felt in football. I love the people and I love the environment, especially working with Leanne [Ross] and that made it one of the toughest decision I've had to make.

''I think anyone who follows the club [City], and has done for so a long time knows what this club means to me, and the significance of this decision.”

She has immediately vowed, though, to make Rangers the dominant force in the SWPL.

Crichton, also a prominent face and voice on BBC's coverage of Scottish football in recent years, is itching to get the most out of a squad that she believes has the necessary quality to be the best in the country.

“I am really excited, It is a privilege to be here,” she told Rangers social media team. “When you look at the 1 per cent and the differences that can be made in terms of taking the team to the next step, for me that’s the real ambition.

“I don’t think being second best is acceptable here and for us that will be the aim and the ambition that we deliver a successful team on the pitch.

“Ultimately we are trying to create that high performance environment where the players strive to be the best version of themselves daily.

“To be here and to be the head coach that leads the team ultimately this season where we are striving to have so many games at Ibrox.

“We will be an exciting team to watch, we will be a successful team. It is an honour and a privilege to be here.

“I know with the fans combined with the team and the quality that we have got that there will be exciting times to come.”