Witschge calls time on career

FORMER Holland international Richard Witschge has decided to hang up his boots after failing to clinch a move to Rangers.

The 35-year-old spent a trial spell at the Ibrox club at the start of the season but was not offered a contract.

Ironically, injuries to summer signings Alex Rae and Dragan Mladenovic have now left Rangers manager Alex McLeish short of experienced midfielders.

But McLeish has been told there are no funds even to bring in an out-of-contract player and Witschge is now looking to begin a new career in coaching.

The midfielder’s 18-year playing career began at Ajax and included spells at Barcelona, Bordeaux and Blackburn Rovers.

He made 31 international appearances following a debut in February 1990 against Italy and played in Euro 96.