Ibrox Exclusive: Alex McLeish identifies ‘major plus factor’ in reported Rangers ‘big name’ hunt
We’re delighted to welcome former Rangers manager Alex McLeish as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Alex McLeish has claimed that Jack Wilshere’s desire to prove himself could be a major “plus factor” for Rangers if they are to sign him.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, the former Gers boss admitted that the free agent is a “big name”, but also suggested that he would need to prove his fitness the Glaswegian club before securing a contract.
The 28-year-old parted company with West Ham at the end of the transfer window after having his contract terminated by mutual consent.
And it is understood that the Gers have expressed interest in trying to sign him, but as yet, no official approach has been made.
Assessing the situation, however, McLeish is convinced that Wilshere will be eager to prove that he can still offer something at the highest level.
Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “That’s a difficult one, to know how Jack is, where his legs are at this stage in his career.
“It’ll probably be up to Rangers. I don’t know if Jack can walk straight in there. He’s a big name, but big names get to the end of their careers. Jack’s still not there yet. He would certainly be saying that in his head.
“He’s still got something to prove, so that would be another major plus factor in terms of his motivation.
“The key for me would be to see if he’s at the level of the speed that he had, the change of pace, the mobility. That is something for the manager to look at.”
Wilshere signed a deal worth a reported £100,000-a-week in east London in the summer of 2018, but made just 19 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers.
Last season, he made eight appearances in the Premier League, starting just twice.
In other Rangers news, this midfielder is not joining the Gers.