Source: Team_Talk
Versatility of Ortiz was key
Ally McCoist insisted the versatility of Spanish midfielder Juan Manuel Ortiz was key to his desire to bring him to Rangers.[LNB] The Ibrox club have confirmed the signing of the 29-year-old from Almeria on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee.[LNB]McCoist's first signing since he succeeded Walter Smith as manager joined up with his new team-mates before flying out from Glasgow Airport for their pre-season trip to Germany.[LNB]The Light Blues boss welcomed his new recruit after failing to land several other targets, including Craig Conway and Neil Danns.[LNB]"We are delighted," said McCoist.[LNB]"There were one or two little hiccups along the road, unfortunately, but it's done and dusted and we are all pleased.[LNB]"I think the fact that he can play a number of positions was a big thing. He probably runs Steven Whittaker close.[LNB]"I'm not sure if he can play left-back and outside right but he can play a few positions.[LNB]"He is quick and has obviously played a few games at a very top level so we are pleased."[LNB]Ortiz, who took part in an impromptu photo-call at the airport, came through the ranks at Atletico Madrid before making his senior debut in 2002.[LNB]However, he failed to make an impact at Atletico and had loan spells at Osasuna and Polideportivo Ejido before moving to Almeria in 2007. Ortiz made over 100 appearances for the Andalucian club, who were relegated from the Primera Division last season.[LNB]During his time at Osasuna, he played alongside former Rangers defender Carlos Cuellar and it was his fellow Spaniard, now with Aston Villa, who helped convince him to move to Scotland.[LNB]"When the chance came up to come to Rangers, I spoke to Carlos about it and he had only good things to say," Ortiz said on Rangers' official website.[LNB]"He told me the club is massive and that he was very, very happy here so he told me it was a move I should make."
