Ibrox Exclusive: Bruce claims Rangers 22y/o must ‘pull up trees’ to woo Gerrard
We’re delighted to welcome former Scottish Premiership defender Alex Bruce as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Rangers…
Alex Bruce has claimed that Rangers midfielder Ross McCrorie must “pull up trees” before he can command a first team role with the Gers.
The 22-year-old has spent this season on loan with League One outfit Portsmouth, but recently admitted to a local news outlet that he has held talks with manager Kenny Jackett over the possibility of extending his stay on the south coast.
McCrorie has been a first team regular at Fratton Park this term, making 22 appearances in all competitions.
But Bruce believes that he must be willing to bide his time at Ibrox if he is to be given a sustained run in the first team.
Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “It’s difficult to forge a career at Rangers.
“You have to be am exceptional player to stay at a club like that and maintain the standards to do that.
“I can understand he wants to find a permanent home, but you have to earn the right [to play for Rangers] and if he has to go out on loan so be it.
“If you go to a Portsmouth, you’ve got to go to Portsmouth and pull up trees so that when you do go back to Rangers you merit your place. That’s what he’s got to concentrate on.”
McCrorie has made 55 appearances for his parent club over the course of his career, scoring two goals.
He has previously spent spells on loan with Ayr United and Dumbarton.
In other Rangers news, FIFPro chief issues verdict on how Gers may have to play behind closed doors.