‘Happily pay money to watch’ – SPFL manager thrilled by Gers youngster who makes things happen
Rangers youngster Kai Kennedy got his first taste of senior football this season and he made a good impression on Inverness manager John Robertson.
The 18-year-old joined Caley Thistle on loan for the first half of the campaign before making another temporary move to Raith Rovers.
Robertson has heaped praise on the winger and clearly liked what he saw, with Kennedy’s form helping him to a new Rangers contract.
Speaking to The Athletic, Robertson said of Kennedy, “He’s a prodigious talent but he’s still a puppy.
“There are times he will be on fire and others when he will dip.
“It’s a consistency thing for Kai right now, as the tools are there to be a top-class footballer.
“In terms of ability, there is nothing to learn — other than how to use it better. He’s a player you would quite happily pay money to watch, as you know something is going to happen.”
Work still to be done
Kennedy may have impressed Robertson and Steven Gerrard in his short career, but he ultimately needs to prove himself on the big stage.
He is still yet to experience the Scottish Premiership and until he does it is unlikely he will challenge Ryan Kent or Kemar Roofe for a place in the team.
Alex McCleish made that point well when he suggested that the 18-year-old has to make the most of his current loan spell.
An opportunity for first-team football will help Kennedy to build on his ten Inverness appearances, and hopefully that will help him to progress.
Robertson’s words suggest the youngster is developing nicely, and hints that he may be starting to live up to the praise he earned from Stevie G.
Now he needs to prove his talent on a regular basis, and find the consistency that Robertson believes he has lacked so far.
A goal and assist so far this season highlights the work he needs to do to improve that aspect of his game, and hopefully Rovers boss John McGlynn can bring that out of him.
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