Ibrox Exclusive: Alex Bruce claims injury misfortune ‘stunted’ Flanagan growth at Rangers
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 injuries were the main reason that Jon Flanagan “struggled” to establish himself at Rangers.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, the former Kilmarnock defender suggested that the full-back had done okay during his spell in Glasgow, but was “stunted” by his poor fitness record.
The Gers confirmed last week that the 27-year-old was one of a number of first team talents who will be leaving the club upon the expiration of their contracts this summer.
The ex-Liverpool man has registered just 10 outings for the Gers this season, partially because of a recurrent groin injury that has kept him sidelined.
And Bruce believes that those complaints have been a key factor in holding his progress back in Scotland.
Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “He’s struggled injury-wise.
“When I’ve seen him play he’s done alright, but I think the injuries and what have you have really been a factor that have stunted his growth at Rangers.
“The biggest thing for him now is to go to a club, be injury-free, and play regularly to show what he’s got. He had potential, being at Liverpool, and then obviously going to Rangers – two big clubs to play for.
“He just needs to get away from the injuries because he’s been very unfortunate with them.”
Flanagan signed for Rangers on a free transfer from boyhood club Liverpool in the summer of 2018 following loan spells with both Burnley and Bolton Wanderers.
Since then, he has managed just 39 outings for the Gers across two seasons, registering just the one assist.
In other Rangers news, Ex-Kilmarnock striker backs ‘incredible’ Hagi to be ‘total success’ in Glasgow.