Borna Barisic has revealed that he considered walking out on Rangers after his struggles for form and fitness last season according to an article in The Daily Record.
The Croatian has just qualified for Euro 2020 after cementing his place as first choice left-back for his country and was speaking about the qualities he feels are needed to succeed at Ibrox and why last season didn’t go to plan.
“Last season I had a few injuries and couldn’t settle down here. My mindset was different. Now, I feel I have the mentality that is needed to be a Rangers player. To play here, your mentality has to be to win every single game”.
“You have to be brave and try to take this team to the top of Scottish football. When you play for Rangers, it isn’t just about physical fitness. The mental side is important too”.
“I came from the Croatian league with Osijek and it’s completely different there”.
“On holiday last summer, I thought a lot about what I had to do better at Rangers”.
Barisic has been like a new man this season with 2 goals and 8 assists and not only is he producing these numbers but the way he plays has noticeably changed, he is more aggressive – see the tackle that won the ball for Sheyi Ojo’s winner v Feyenoord as an example – he is also offering a greater balance in attack but driving into the box more often. His performance against Livingston before the international break demonstrating just how far he has come.
Who is the better full-back?
Borna Barisic
James Tavernier
These Rangers fans took to Twitter to acknowledge the change in their left-back and to show their appreciation for the Croatian international.
Borna Barisic is gonna be a major star at euro 2020 next year
— Robert-w.a.t.p (@rangerslad1983) November 17, 2019
Great stuff BORNA proving the doubters wrong by continuing to get better and better. Congratulations BB exciting times mate ????
— Craigers ???????????? (@Cazei34) November 17, 2019
One of the best LBs in Europe. Obvs!
— Uncle Albeartz (@skoosh1) November 17, 2019
Best full back hands down in Scotland it’s no even close
— Blair Mulgrew (@MulgrewBlair) November 17, 2019
Mental that Borna Barisic is the best left back in Europe ???????????????? https://t.co/MeegIvsds9
— Ross. ???? (@daltontoaj) November 17, 2019
Barisic is a fantastic player. He’s really found his form this season and is a great attacking threat down the left hand side for Rangers, but still capable defensively. We love big Borna.
— Sandcastle Smasher (@RFC766) November 16, 2019
Rangers fans will be hoping that Barisic continues his rich vein of form as the Ibrox club look to maintain the pressure on Old Firm rivals Celtic in the closest title race in years.