By Graeme Hanna

16th May, 2023 | 2:10pm

Brian Laudrup "really happy" for super Souttar after Old Firm recovery

Rangers legend Brian Laudrup has admitted he is really happy with the progress of John Souttar after his starring role in Saturday’s Premiership victory over Celtic, in his Scottish Daily Mail column [16 May, Page 70].

The Great Dane applauded the Scotland international for how he has bounced back from the recent error at Parkhead to make a real impression, to the extent that he can be “like a new signing for Rangers” in the next campaign.

Souttar’s goal against Celtic on Saturday capped off a fine performance for the former Hearts player who is taking full advantage of the recent injury setback to Ben Davies.

Laudrup expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the man known as Soapy to his teammates.

“One player who could be like a new signing for Rangers is John Souttar. He looked extremely happy when he scored his goal against Celtic on Saturday. It looked like a massive weight had been lifted from his shoulders,” he said.

“You have to say that position next to Connor Goldson is up for grabs right now.

“Beale could go for a left-footed defender. He has Ben Davies but he has not been convincing all season so this is a chance for Souttar to show what he can do.

“Souttar’s first season at Rangers must feel like a rollercoaster. His goal on Saturday was a huge moment and I was really happy for the guy because he’s been through a nightmare this term and his overall performance against Celtic was impressive.”

Change in defence

Souttar’s prominence and improvement will come at a time when Michael Beale is weighing up changes to the heart of his backline.

The 26-year-old is a proven player in the Scottish Premiership and also has an admirer in Scotland boss, Steve Clarke.

Rangers fans are yet to see the best of him, following a season disrupted by injury and personal issues. He will be a very capable contender for the manager next season.

Two more central defenders are likely to arrive at the club, with three to depart.

Filip Helander is coming to the end of his contract, whilst Ben Davies looks destined for a return to England so that the Gers can reinvest. Leon King should be looking to go on loan to play 20-30 games at the first-team level, maybe even to another Premiership club.

All that and more lies ahead in what will be a fascinating summer squad rebuild at Ibrox.

In other Rangers news, the transfer ‘madness’ begins as the club fires a multi-million bid for a new attacker, according to this report