Ibrox Exclusive: Alex Bruce welcomes loan extension for Rangers 22y/o McCrorie
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 the pressure of playing for Portsmouth will help to equip Rangers loanee Ross McCrorie with the tools he needs to be a success for his parent club.
Speaking to Ibrox News, the former Kilmarnock defender acknowledged the hostility of the atmosphere at Pompey’s Fratton Park, and suggested that it would provide the midfielder with a “decent test” as he looks to prove he is capable of making the step up for to regular first team football for the Gers.
McCrorie has been on loan on the south coast all season, and it has been confirmed that his deal will be extended further as he looks to help the League One club gain promotion via the play-offs.
And Bruce believes that playing in such high-profile matches will prepare him for life at Ibrox.
Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “There is pressure playing for Rangers, but playing for Portsmouth will be a decent test for him because it’s a hostile ground to go to, especially when it’s full, Fratton Park.
“It will be good to see how he reacts and copes with the situation.
“You have to be an exceptional player to forge a career at Rangers.
“He has to concentrate on his loan for now though because as a young player you’ve got to go and earn your stripes. Whatever your parent club want you to do, you’ve just got to do it.”
The 22-year-old has featured 22 times for Pompey in all competitions so far this season, registering five assists.
He already has 55 appearances for the first team at Rangers, scoring twice in the process.
In other Rangers news, Report – Gers have initial approach for Kemar Roofe knocked back.