SCOTS kid John Ruddy is set to step up to the professional ranks of Spanish football – and he has a choice of clubs.The former Rangers Academy keeper has been offered the chance to pull on the gloves at Second Division sides Villarreal, Hercules, Elche and Real Murcia.
After relocating to Spain with his family three years ago, the 15-year-old has caught the eye for his displays with local club Torre Pacheco and will sign his first pro deal this summer.
The 6ft 2in kid has been capped for Scotland at Under-16 level and has also turned out for Spanish regional squads. But he insists he would never turn his back on the country of his birth despite being two years away from being eligible for Spain.
He said: “Moving to Spain has been great for me as I have the chance to further my career. But no matter what, I’d never play for any country other than Scotland as I’m passionate about my national team.
“My family are adamant that I must conclude my studies before moving into full-time football so I’m in no rush to decide where to go. I have a big decision to make after being offered the chance to sign for four different teams. My family is based in Murcia so a move to Real Murcia would make sense from a travelling point of view.”
Ruddy insists his time with Rangers has stood him in good stead. He said: “I was with Rangers from the age of seven until 12 and I feel indebted to them for the time they spent coaching me, in particular Alan Main but Andy Goram too.
“It’s unusual to be a Scot playing in Spain. Keepers here are surprised I catch the ball when their culture is to punch it. My aim is to become the first Scottish keeper to play in La Liga.”
Culled from The Daily Record.
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