Joleon Lescott turns down Rangers move for family reasons

Joleon Lescott's proposed move to Rangers has fallen through after the defender turned them down due to family reasons.

The Aston Villa defender had met with Ibrox manager Mark Warburton in Manchester this week to discuss terms and had undergone a medical with the club.

He has decided, however, not to join the Scottish Premiership side and with Sunderland reported to be keen, he could now pursue a switch there instead.

Villa boss Roberto Di Matteo said: "He passed a medical and everything. They didn't agree personal terms so the move has fallen through and he is back with us now.

"It's a headache I've been dealing with from day one, there are a number of players like that [who want to leave]. They have been involved in the group and then I have made a decision on ones who expressed wishes to leave. I will work with the ones who want to be here.

"It [Lescott leaving] depends on what solution he will find, one which suits the club and the player."

Warburton, meanwhile, may turn to former Arsenal and Fulham defender Philippe Senderos after he spent the week training in Glasgow.

Asked about the prospect of signing one or both of the defenders on Thursday, he had maintained he was only seeking one centre-half and had a number of options.

Warburton also praised the Swiss international's efforts and said: "I can't speak highly enough of Philippe. He hadn't been training with a team for a few weeks, so his level of fitness is outstanding.

"His CV is well documented, but his level of fitness, the way he has fitted into the group has been first class.

"He has dealt with training effortlessly all week so we have to look at a number of options and I have been very impressed by Philippe."

Rangers have completed the signing Preston forward Joe Garner after the formalities were completed on Friday.

But it seems as though two from Danny Wilson, Rob Kiernan and Clint Hill will play at the back against Motherwell on Saturday.

Last season's Championship winners have so far recruited nine new players this summer but remain light on defensive options and have conceded in both of their league games so far.

Meanwhile, Rangers have confirmed that midfielder Robbie Crawford's contract has been cancelled by mutual consent. The 23-year-old made more than 50 appearances for the club but spent last season on loan at Alloa.

"After almost 15 years to the day since my first session I'll be leaving Rangers FC," Crawford wrote on Twitter. "Gone through more than most experience in a whole career but had some of the happiest days of my life here.

"Some brilliant people at the club and wish them all the success themselves and the fans deserve. On to the next adventure."