Elijah Just in deep consideration over next move as Rangers line up Motherwell raid - Exclusive

Elijah Just has a trait that could define the Rangers target’s next move, according to the man who coached him for six years.

The Motherwell man has been widely linked with Derek McInnes' side, and also their arch-rivals Celtic.

So far nothing has moved in terms of his potential exit from Motherwell, but has hinted at a departure after his star performances at the World Cup.

Rangers have been told the attributes that would see Just succeed at Ibrox, but they are yet to launch a formal offer.

Just's stance on a move to the Govan club is not publicly known, he has not commented specifically on those links.

Some insight has been provided from Declan Edge, after his three goal performance at the tournament.

What will decide Rangers target Elijah Just's decision on his future?

Just's former coach in New Zealand, Edge, believes that he will show his ambition with his next move, although, he has not reached out to the player after the scenes in America and Canada.

He coached the 26-year-old between the ages of 14 and 20, and believes that his intelligence will lead him to carefully consider the next step in his career.

Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, he said: “I think Eli has always been ambitious to find out his potential level.

“I first saw Eli when he was around 13-14 playing at Western Suburbs and invited him to come train full-time at the Ole Academy.

“He joined other players including Ryan Thomas, Marko Stamenic, Callum McCowatt, Matt Garbett, Nando Pijnaker who were already with me at that time.

“Many others also who are full New Zealand internationals and didn’t quite make the World Cup squad.

“Also, Tyler Boyd, US national team, Maya Hahn, New Zealand women’s team and Mohammed Awad, Somalian international player.

“I haven’t spoken to him after the World Cup yet.

“He's a smart man and will be thinking deeply about his next move, I’m sure, and how important it will be to his progress.

“I’m not sure [about his destination] but like I said he has a good instinct on things.

Would Rangers be able to match Just's ambition

Rangers could be the right destination for the 47-cap international as they are expected to be challenging for the Scottish Premiership title next season.

McInnes nearly lifted the trophy with Hearts, but was pipped by the Gers' city rivals and he has already made encouraging signings.

Given his showings at the tournament, though, he may have more interest from European sides, which could complicate the pursuit.

The Steelman could likely demand a very high figure for the winger, which could rule McInnes' side out of the race, unless they strike early.