“From Ibrox Scapegoat to Dutch Advocate: Sam Lammers’ Surprising Praise for Rangers Inspires New Recruit”
From scapegoat to advocate. Despite enduring relentless abuse during his unsuccessful stint at Ibrox, Sam Lammers is perhaps the last person Rangers fans would have expected to speak positively about the club to Robin Propper, who was considering a move to Govan.
Surprisingly, though, Lammers had only good things to say about his time in Glasgow. This comes as a shock, given that Lammers left as quickly as he could after becoming the face of Michael Beale’s failed summer transfer campaign. Every poor touch and missed shot only fueled the frustration of the Rangers supporters.
Lammers seized the opportunity to return to the Eredivisie, first on loan to Utrecht, and later signing permanently with FC Twente. Propper, now moving in the opposite direction, consulted Lammers before committing to Rangers, but instead of being discouraged by his former teammate’s negative experience, the center-back is optimistic about winning over the fans.
Propper said, “It’s nice to see that some great players have played here and made history. I spoke to several players who were already here. I played with Cyriel Dessers at Heracles and talked to him, and I also spoke with Sam Lammers, of course. I did my research and even spoke with Andries Ulderink, who was crucial in my decision. He told me all about the club, and it seemed like a good step for me.
When asked what Lammers had told him, Propper explained, “He shared what all clubs expect—what they want to achieve. But he also told me about the size of the stadium and the passion of the fans. It’s normal in football for there to be pressure. Sometimes things work out, and sometimes they don’t. I’m just focused on doing my best and seeing what happens.”
Propper was not rushed into action against Hearts and Dynamo Kyiv, as manager Philippe Clement believed he needed more time to adjust to his new environment. However, Propper is confident he possesses the leadership qualities Rangers have been seeking since Connor Goldson’s departure.
Reflecting on Goldson, Propper said, “He did some good things here. I’ll try to be a leader too, guiding the players around me. I did this in Holland, and it’s natural for me as a defender to support my teammates.”
Propper, nearing his 31st birthday, is finally seizing the opportunity to play abroad after previously turning down several chances. “There were offers to move abroad before, but it didn’t work out for various reasons,” he said. “Now, I’m glad to be here, and I’m focusing on this opportunity. I’ve taken my career step by step, and I believe this is the right move. It’s always been a dream of mine to play in a new stadium, make new friends, and experience a new country, so this was a no-brainer for me.”