I recently picked up a copy of a letter that was issued by Ron Phillips on 27th November 1973 to all Football League Clubs:
‘We wish to inform you that we are prepared to receive offers for the transfer of the under-mentioned player:
Dear Sir,
IAN GILLARD – 23 years old. Full-back.
(single) – 78 First Team appearances. 1 goal.
This does not give you permission to approach the player direct. All enquiries should be made to our Team Manager, Mr G. H. Jago.’
Yours Faithfully,
R. J. Phillips
Secretary
Initially, I have to say that I was surprised when I read that, so I familiarised myself with the Rangers line-ups for the start of the 1973/74 season.
Prior to that letter, Ian had made just the one league appearance, which came at Everton in September. The No. 3 position had been shared between Ian Watson and Tony Hazell.
However, Ian regained his place for the home game against Newcastle United on 22nd December and remained a regular until the end of the season.
He then rarely missed a game for the next eight and a half years, up to his departure after the end of the 1981/82 season.
His final match for the R’s was the FA Cup replay against Tottenham on the 27th May.
Steve Russell