MICHAEL BEALE has sent a message of thanks to everyone connected with Rangers as he departed Ibrox alongside Steven Gerrard.

Gerrard departed Glasgow yesterday as he linked up with Premier League outfit Aston Villa.

Beale will move to Villa Park alongside assistant Gary McAllister and the trio are set to start work on Monday.

After three and half years at Ibrox it was an emotional decision for the coaching team and Beale adressed the move on Instagram.

He said: "Thank you - to everyone at Rangers Football Club, the players, staff, board members and most importantly the fans.

"Thank you so much for the support and time you have given me. Representing the club was a huge honour and privilege.

"The last 3.5yrs has been an incredible experience for me and my family, my daughter was born here in Glasgow and I leave with two sons who are Rangers crazy.

"The time has flown and I have memories that will last a lifetime - The “invincible 55”, the big European nights / performances, the incredible away support at every city and stadium we visit, 193 games including 53 in European competition, the unbeaten run in old firm matches, the current run of 1 defeat in 52 league games, working with this group of players, the people I’ve met and the friendships built both inside and outside of the club - Football is about the players and fans.

"When those two groups of people unite then very special things can be achieved. This club has shown that for 150 years and will continue to go from strength to strength - because the squad of players is fantastic and the fans are like no other I’ve seen in football."