Kirk Broadfoot (2007 to 2012)
Kirk Broadfoot began his senior career with St Mirren, part of the team that won the 2005–06 Scottish First Division thus gaining promotion to the Scottish Premier League.
In 2007, Rangers manager Walter Smith surprised many when he signed Broadfoot as a free agent. Broadfoot’s versatility was undoubtedly a contributory factor for Smith as he looked to restructure the playing squad (with modest resources in comparison to his first spell) following his return as boss earlier in the year. It was not a new approach, Smith had previously brought the likes of Gary Bollan, Alex Cleland and Fraser Wishart to Ibrox. All perfectly good players and professionals who knew the league but none of whom would have been considered marquee signings by any stretch of the imagination. Strengthening the Scottish identity was, perhaps, another significant factor in all of those arrivals.
Whilst Kirk wouldn't win prizes for being the most cultured defender to pull on the famous blue jersey, the Irvine born defender would enjoy great success at Ibrox including 3 Scottish Premier League titles, 2 Scottish Cups, 2 League Cups, and a run to the 2008 UEFA Cup Final. With a physique far more suited to playing in central defence / part of a back three, Kirk could also be relied upon to occupy the full back role and his competitive instinct and will to win made him a difficult opponent for any offensive player. Nobody could ever accuse Kirk of lacking in effort and his performances were appreciated by the Gers support during his time in Glasgow as he 'lived the dream'.
Broadfoot left Rangers by mutual consent in 2012 and went on to represent many clubs, including Blackpool, Rotherham United, Kilmarnock and Inverness Caledonian Thistle. There was also a second spell back in Paisley.
Somewhat of a fitness fanatic, Kirk made the unusual move in dropping down to the Lowland league (Broomhill) before then returning to the Scottish Championship with Saints fiercest rivals, Greenock Morton. Kirk was never one to ingratiate himself with his previous sides, indeed his antics as a Kilmarnock player often infuriating the Ibrox faithful during various clashes long after his departure.
For those who may wish to describe Broadfoot simply as a journeyman, it should be remembered that in addition to winning every major domestic honour and appearing in a major European Final, Kirk also earned four caps for Scotland between 2008 and 2010, scoring once.
Broadfoot has emulated his former Rangers team mate, Davie Weir, in remaining active in the game at the ripe old age of 40 where he is currently part of the Kelty Hearts set up.
by Rick Plews
