Ronny Deila delivers verdict on Rangers January signing James Sands
Former Celtic manager Ronny Deila has suggested that James Sands will find it tough at Rangers.
The United States midfielder joined the Gers in the January transfer window from New York City on an 18-month loan deal.
The Bears have an option to sign the 21-year-old on a permanent deal at the end of his loan spell.
Deila has suggested that Sands was a “role model” during his time in New York City. However, it will be difficult for him in Glasgow, where the fan base is divided.
“Last year, the one role model I wanted every player at the club to look up to was James Sands,” said Deila on the Coaching Academy podcast, as relayed by Glasgow Evening Times.
“He was also first in the facility, he always did the most in the gym, he’s the latest to leave. He always does everything perfect.
“He wants to learn and everyday goes 100 percent. When those type of players get what they want, that’s just an amazing feeling as a coach.
“But it’s going to be tough for him in Scotland because he’s jumping to another level – maybe not football wise so much better, I don’t think so.
“But the pressure and the environment, moving away from New York and his family and into an environment where 50 percent of the city hates you and 50 percent loves you – and that’s only when you’re playing well!
“That’s a new experience for him and at the age of 21 that’s going to make him a better player. But you have to suffer sometimes in life to get what you want.
“But James knows how to act and to think during this period and he just has to get better. Then he will break into the team.”
Settling down
Sands is a highly talented young player who needs time to settle down in Glasgow.
He has already made three appearances for the Scottish champions and will be the squad for the crucial Europa League clash on Thursday night against Borussia Dortmund.
The American is a versatile talent who can also play in defence as well as in the right-back position.
Under Giovanni van Bronckhorst, he has played mostly as a defensive midfielder.
Rangers have wealth of talent in midfield, and with Ryan Jack now back as well, the Dutchman now has a wealth of options to choose from.
Due to his versatile nature, Sands can be used in multiple positions based on availability. He has got loads of time to make an impact, and there’s no pressure on him, as yet.
Since their 3-0 defeat against Celtic, Rangers have regrouped themselves and have won three games in a row. They have scored 10 goals in all competitions in their last three games, and are heading with full confidence ahead of their Europa clash.
In other Rangers news, the club could be prepared to sell one of their star men for a 50% discount to the Premier League.