‘Superstar’ – Exclusive: McLeish hails Rangers ace who has ‘elements of a young Steven Gerrard’
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…
Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack has “elements of a young Steven Gerrard” in him, according to Alex McLeish.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, the former Gers boss claimed that the 28-year-old has the capacity to be a “superstar” in Glasgow.
Jack featured in Scotland’s penalty shootout win over Israel in midweek, but came in for criticism from some fans for his display.
In McLeish’s opinion, however, Jack’s inclusion in such a high pressure clash is testament to his positive qualities and sizeable potential.
Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “Stevie [Gerrard] likes Ryan Jack, and he’s mentioned it over the last year or two.
“You can see elements of a young Steven Gerrard in Jack, although he’s got a long way to go to match that Gerrard factor.
“He seems to get better with age, and the more he plays in these big games, he’s going to have more confidence in himself. The experience you get from these big games really increases your mentality about your whole career.
“He’s a steady eddy, but when he scores the winner in an Old Firm derby, he’s a superstar. He’s a vital cog in the wheel, and when you’re building a team, you need these guys.”
Jack has established himself as a key component for Gerrard’s side in Glasgow, and has registered eight Scottish Premiership appearances so far this term – missing the other two fixtures with a calf injury.
Thursday’s outing at Hampden Park was his fifth senior cap for Scotland, with all of those coming since he signed for Rangers.
In other Rangers news, Mauricio Pochettino left raving about this Gers star man.