Rangers: John Lundstram emerges as key Ibrox leader as talks continue to prevent exit

Derek Ferguson hopes John Lundstram extends his Rangers contract because he is a leader in the squad and one of the best players this season.

The English midfielder's deal currently expires in the summer and he is in talks with the club over a new one [Daily Record, 20 January].

Ferguson says he puts the 30-year-old on a par with the likes of captain James Tavernier and centre-back Connor Goldson after he saw how important Lundstram had become when watching the squad in action at their January training camp in La Manga.

With the former Sheffield United man playing so well and so comfortable that the pundit believes "he loves it" in Glasgow he suggested there is no better place for him to be.

Ferguson exclusively told Ibrox News: “He’s been one of our best performers this season, churning out game after game but doing it with a lot of quality.

“I think he’s one of the leaders in that Rangers side. I was speaking to one of the guys at a function over in La Manga and we were able to watch the training and a couple of the games that they played.

“The one thing that stood out was that he was one of the leaders. Of course you’ve got Tav and guys like Goldson and big Jack Butland, but certainly Lundstram comes into that category.

“He’s played exceptionally well. He gets us. He gets what Rangers is all about. I think he loves it up here. 

“And you think where else is he going to be plying his trade if he doesn’t sign for Rangers?”

Exit-linked Rangers ace as important as James Tavernier and Jack Butland to the squad

Ryan Jack's contract is also up but his lack of availability looks set to see him depart, which would only make Lundstram more key to the side.

Philippe Clement has started him in nearly every game since he's been in charge at Rangers and the Englishman has responded with some of his best form for the club.

Michael Stewart said recently it would be an expensive proposition if the Light Blues were obliged to find a replacement in the transfer market, and he was right, so the sooner an agreement is reached the better.

In other Rangers news, another senior Gers ace has already agreed to leave the club this summer.

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