Giovanni van Bronckhorst wowed by Rangers man Calvin Bassey
The displays of Calvin Bassey have wowed Giovanni van Bronckhorst for Rangers since he arrived at the club.
Last month, the Dutchman replaced Steven Gerrard, and the 21-year-old has played every game since GvB arrived.
He hasn’t even played as a left-back yet and has filled in at centre-back, but he is clearly doing enough to impress his new manager.
Speaking to the Scottish Herald about Bassey, the Dutchman said: “I haven’t seen him play a lot as a left-back. I saw some footage, but in my five games here, he has played as a central defender. I’m really happy with him; he’s got everything for a modern defender.
“He’s very quick, he’s good in the air, physically he’s very strong, and we are just working with him on his build-up play.
“He’s a very good kid, and like Nathan, he’s open to learn new things, to be better every game.”
Bassey is becoming a key player.
Now, because of injuries, van Bronckhorst hasn’t had much choice over his centre-backs, but the Nigerian has made a big impression so far.
Certainly, you would think that he has a chance of keeping the centre-back role permanently, given the way he has performed under van Bronckhorst.
It is also lovely to hear public praise from the Dutchman for Bassey, who is a player who had been in and out of the team before GvB’s arrival under Gerrard.
Remember, he has been described as “phenomenal” by Steve Beaglehole in the past, so there is clearly some talent there [The Athletic 12 October].
He is one player who has grabbed his opportunity with both hands, and you would have to say that it would be harsh if the Gers were to drop him even when Leon Balogun and Filip Helander return.
Bassey looks to have a big future with the Bears, and a permanent move to the middle of defence could be the next step for the 21-year-old.
He is an exciting prospect, and we can’t wait to see more of him going forward.
In other Rangers news, two Hearts Super Fans have previewed the game for us on Sunday.