Gary Mackay-Steven has completed his move to MLS side New York City.
The 28 year-old is looking forward to a new challenge in the United States following his move from Aberdeen.
Mackay-Steven, who will be eligible to play for his new club from July 9 when the US transfer window opens, said: “I’m delighted to finally sign on the dotted line.
“I can’t wait to hit the ground running and make my debut in the blue shirt. I can’t wait to show what I can do to the fans in Yankee Stadium.
“The lure of playing in America and in MLS is really attractive to me. It’s always been a draw for me, it’s hard to say no. I can’t wait to get started.
“You see NYCFC from afar and the way they play football is the way it should be played. A player like me, coming into an atmosphere when the philosophy is in place, it is going to be enjoyable.
“I want to learn as much as I can and hopefully hit the ground running.
“I like to take people on in the 1 v 1 situations. I like to make things happen and to get fans off their seats.
“Hopefully I can do that in New York and show what I’m all about. I feel everything is in place to win a trophy. A squad like New York, with the structure in place, it’s really in the team’s grasps and hopefully I can chip in with goals and assists.”
The Scotland international’s arrival at New York brings to a close the club’s long pursuit of the player.
As recently as a week ago Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes had not given up hope of keeping Mackay-Steven at the club after New York had reportedly ended their interest.
Portsmouth were also keen on Mackay-Steven but following a fresh approach from New York Mackay-Steven has signed a long-term deal.
New York manager Domenec Torrent said: “Gary brings the qualities that this club is looking for in an attacking player. He’s very good on the ball and likes to run at players in 1 v 1 situations.
“When he is on the wing, he delivers a quality ball into the box, but can also cut inside and cause the opponent’s defenders a lot of trouble. He is another talented attacker that I can now choose from.”
Former Rangers midfielder Claudio Reyna, New York’s sporting director, added: “Gary is a player we have been tracking for some time and we’re excited to add him to our squad. He’s an out-and-out winger that can play on both sides of the pitch and strengthens our attacking options.
“We have a core group of experienced players who form the spine of our team and Gary possesses the same leadership qualities that already exist in our locker room.
“He’s played in big games in Europe and has been part of title-winning teams and we’re really excited to have him join NYCFC.”
