Ian William Murray (born 20 March 1981, in Edinburgh) is a professional Scottish footballer currently playing for Rangers in the Scottish Premier League.
His versatility has seen him deployed in a variety of roles in his career, without really establishing a recognised position. He can play centre back, left back, right back, defensive midfielder and even as a striker. He is often used for his good man-marking skills.
He previously played for Hibernian, where he was also captain, before joining Rangers on a free transfer in the summer of 2005. His transfer to Rangers was the cause of much resentment amongst the Edinburgh side’s supporters. Consequently, Murray’s circumstances ensure he is roundly booed at both Tynecastle and Easter Road whenever he returns with Rangers to play in Edinburgh.
On October 3, 2006 it was revealed that Murray had been suffering from reactive arthritis and was ruled out until early 2007. His return to the team against Motherwell was manager Paul Le Guen’s last match in charge before leaving the club by mutual consent. Sadly his whole season was put in disarray due to the illness where he missed Ranger’s run in.
International career1981
Murray’s international debut for Scotland came as a substitute against Canada in October 2002 in a 3-1 win. He did not win a cap till two years later when he came on during a World Cup 2006 qualifier at half time against Moldova in a 1-1 draw played in October 2004. His only start for the national team so far was a disappointing 1-0 home defeat against Belarus where he came off at half time due to a poor performance. In total he has won six caps for Scotland though he has failed to establish himself as a starter in an established position.
He was also a captain for the Scotland Under 21’s side.
