Rangers: John Souttar comeback confirmed as Michael Beale prediction turns out correct
Rangers’ John Souttar has topped off a very impressive end to the season for him personally with the news that he has been called up to Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad, as confirmed by the club’s Twitter account.
Along with Ryan Jack, he will be part of the squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Norway and Georgia, with a very good chance to feature given the strength of his performances in recent weeks for the Gers.
Michael Beale predicted that the central defender’s season would be extended, with international involvement, following the 3-0 victory over St Mirren on Saturday.
When asked if the end of the campaign had come at the wrong time for Souttar, Beale responded full of praise for his player.
“He’ll probably get another couple of games if he’s involved with the national team,” he said.
“His wife is due so it could be a nice summer, things seem to be coming together for John and I’m delighted for him as a man.
“He’ll come back pre-season, we’ve toyed a little bit with a back three at times. John has the qualities to step in, cover around people and has been blighted by long-term injuries, John Souttar is a top footballer.”
Significant impact
It is abundantly clear that Beale is an admirer of Souttar. So too, is Clarke.
He has a great platform ahead, at club and international level, which is why it is so important that he is managed carefully to ensure that he has the best chance of staying fully fit.
If the former Hearts player can get himself into a position to regularly feature for Rangers, he has the ability to make a significant impact and hold down a place of his own.
He is so well suited to the demands of Scottish football and he will strive to improve further to meet all of the demands at Ibrox, but based on the last few weeks, he is in a fantastic position to push on to the next level.
Souttar will be one of the central defensive options for Beale at the start of the new season, but with injury concerns over Connor Goldson, his strong form has increased his reputation and that will be tested with new signings to arrive over the summer.
In other Rangers news, English clubs have been left in the dust after a player agreement is confirmed at Ibrox.