£4m deal a bargain for Gerrard’s international that makes “big difference” claims pundit

Former Celtic skipper, Jackie McNamara, has expressed how impressed he has been with Rangers left-back, Borna Barisic, as the ink dries on the Croatian international’s new bumper, £4m contract.

Speaking to Football Insider, the retired Scotland international is clearly a fan of the full-back as he explains why Steven Gerrard will be happy with the new deal.

So what has McNamara said?

When asked if he thought that the Rangers gaffer will be delighted now that he has secured Barisic’s services until – at least – 2024, he said:

“Yeah, I think he will be. He’s been good for them, for Gerrard this year.”

“He’s made a big difference. He’s put in some good performances, set up a few goals and I think there’s been some confidence from that.”

“It’s like anything, he’s a confidence player and he’s now settled in at the club.”

So is McNamara correct?

Barisic has seen an incredible turnaround in his 18-months at Ibrox, he has gone from a much maligned and underperforming squad member to one of the first names on the team sheet and displaying the sort of leadership qualities and performances that persuaded the Light Blues to part with £2m to sign him from Osijek in the first place.

When James Tavernier was enduring a dip in form, Barisic seemed to rise to the challenge and carried a greater attacking threat than he has done since he first arrived in Scotland. With 14 assists and 2 goals this season he has been an integral part of Rangers attacking strategy providing the width on the left-hand side.

To think that the 27-year-old was once-upon-a-time having his place in the team questioned and being compared with Jon Flanagan and Andy Halliday now seems laughable given just how important he has been for Gerrard’s side.

Barisic has been – arguably- Rangers most consistent performer since the start of the season and his new contract is reflective of his relationship with, not only the manager, but also with the Gers support, he maybe “comes and goes” but for now he is most definitely staying.