'He was unpopular at Everton' - Keith Wyness drops verdict on Rangers new signing Ben Godfrey

Ben Godfrey's move to Rangers on a season-long loan deal could prove to be a masterstroke.

That is according to former Everton and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, who believes that the former Toffees star will become a "very popular" figure at Ibrox.

Godfrey sealed his move to join Rangers from Atalanta earlier this week, and the Scottish giants also have the option to purchase him for £3.8million next summer.

Wyness has backed the centre-back to be a huge success north of the border, and believes that he could make a huge impact on games in the Scottish Premiership.

The 28-year-old enjoyed loan stints with both Brondby and Sheffield United last term, and Rangers are the beneficiaries this time around.

Godfrey previously made over 110 Premier League appearances across spells with Everton and Norwich City, and will provide ample experience at Rangers in 2026-27.

Keith Wyness: Ben Godfrey will do 'very well' at Rangers

Everton’s former chief Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – believes that Godfrey has been harshly criticised at times during his career.

The defender's time at Goodison Park ended amid frustration towards him from some supporters, but Wyness believes his personality can never be questioned.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, he made it clear that Godfrey has all the attributes to be a big success at Ibrox.

"I think it's an excellent move. I saw Godfrey when he was at Everton, and I rated him. He perhaps wasn't the most popular footballer, but I supported him because I saw the effort levels and his athletic ability," Wyness said.

"Yes, there was a mistake in him occasionally, and yes, he's had a couple of injuries, but still I believe fundamentally there's a very, very good pro in there. 

"I think he'll do very well at Rangers and he'll be a real commanding force in the SPL. He'll be very popular up there, and it's a great deal for Rangers.

"I think with his experience now, he's going to see some of his best days and bigger success."

Rangers ready for Nicolas Raskin 'bidding war'

Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Rangers are ready to increase their asking price for Nicolas Raskin up towards the £25million mark.

The Light Blues are expecting a "bidding war" for the Belgium international this summer, as he is now into the final two years of his contract.

Hull City, Real Betis and Bologna are all keen to strike a deal for him at the moment, and Rangers are looking to squeeze every penny out of a potential suitor.

They were previously valuing the 25-year-old at £20m, but are now sensing an opportunity to sweeten the deal for themselves as interest grows.