Joe Garner: 'It was difficult to leave Preston North End'

Joe Garner of Preston North End celebrates with team-mate Jake Larkins after he scores the first goal of the game for his side from the penalty spot during the Sky Bet League One match between Preston North End and Leyton Orient at Deepdale on February 15
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Striker Joe Garner admits that it was difficult to end his three-year spell with Preston North End in order to join Rangers.

Striker Joe Garner has admitted that he found it difficult to leave Preston North End after a successful period at Deepdale.

Garner has penned a three-year deal with Rangers after scoring 57 goals in 151 appearances for the North-West outfit, and the forward has acknowledged that it was not an easy decision to move north of the border.

The 28-year-old told the club's official website: "I would like to thank all the staff, players and fans for their support during my time at the club. The manager put a lot of faith in me and I am grateful to him and all the staff for their help in developing me further as a player.

"It was a very hard decision for me to leave, if only because of the amazing backing I have had from the fans. They took me to their hearts and I couldn't have asked for any more and I leave with some amazing memories; not least the promotion at Wembley, which was as special for every fan as it was for the players, staff and myself."

Garner could make his debut when Rangers travel to Kilmarnock on Friday night.

Rangers manager Mark Warburton arrives at the ground during the Scottish Championships match between Greenock Morton FC and Rangers at Cappielow Park on September 27, 2015 in Greenock, Scotland.
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