Hearing the update that Turkish football hero Hamit Altintop has leapt to the defence of Ridvan Yilmaz has provided an encouraging boost, with hopefully the same effect resonating with the diminutive left-sided player.
Following his move from Besiktas, there was plenty of anticipation to see the player in action but that hasn’t quite materialised yet. In fleeting moments, the supporters have been provided with a glimpse of what Yilmaz has to offer but its fair to say that his time is still to come.
Reasons for his lack of exposure so far relate to matters both on and off the pitch. It is important that Rangers manage their asset correctly, in his first move abroad they can reap the rewards if things are timed and developed correctly. Having spent an initial outlay of around £3.4 million, you would like to think that an effective plan is in place.
His signing has also resulted in a response from Borna Barisic at left-back, who has appeared more like the solid player of times past over the last couple of months.
Path
Yilmaz was part of the Turkey squad for the games against Luxebourg and Faroe Islands, but did not see action – likely in part because he hasn’t been playing in Glasgow.
This led to some frank discussion on his situation on Turkish TV and a swipe that he is being ‘carried like a bag’ resulting in former Bayern Munich and Real Madrid man Altintop firing back:
“Don’t we see that Ridvan has entered into a culture and language change? We are talking about months (after the transfer to Rangers).”
“I hope the senior players will show him the right path, give (Yilmaz) courage and self-confidence.”
“They (young players) need us. They say to us – I hope they show us the right way, they say it will help me.”
“We are striving for them. We want to play well. We want want them to say if I am talented, I can be successful with this determination.”
There is plenty of optimism on what Ridvan Yilmaz can contribute which should also culminate in a breakthrough at Ibrox in the coming months.