Steven Gerrard has paid tribute to the attitude and application of his attacker Ianis Hagi, describing him as ‘a student of the game.’
At the Rangers press conference yesterday, the manager was asked about the impact of Hagi in recent weeks, prompting a very complimentary response.
He said, “We’re really happy with Ianis, he’s a joy to work with and a student of the game.”
“He is always looking at areas to improve, whether that be from a physical point of view, tactically or technically.”
“Ianis is someone you have to drag in off the training ground, he is always in the analyst’s department, he is never out of the gym so he is a dream to work with, very low maintenance.”
“We are delighted with how he is developing and progressing, we are delighted to have him here but he is one who we are supporting and still trying to push in all kinds of areas to keep him evolving and growing because we feel there is more to come and that is the exciting part.”
“He has really delivered in terms of his contribution recently. We had a good idea in his first full season that there would be moments where we would have to protect him and there would be times to just let him go, to be himself with freedom within our system and that is what he has done, certainly of late.”
That contribution included the assist for Ryan Jack’s goal on Saturday against Ross County, which finished off a wonderful team move from deep inside Rangers defence.
The assist was Hagi’s ninth of the Premiership season in which he has also scored three goals.
High Expectations
By his own standards, the Romanian had a disappointing display against Celtic in what was otherwise a fine December for the 22 year old, who came to Ibrox from Belgian side Genk.
With a very famous father and his own expectations, there are always demands and comparisons for Hagi Jnr to face but that is partly due to the serious potential that he possesses.
The mission for the player and the Rangers coaches is whether or not the full potential can be unlocked.
Ianis Hagi will be relishing the upcoming business end to the season with Rangers making a double assault on the Scottish Premiership title as well as the Europa League knockout stages.
He has previously shown he is a man for the big moment who can be relied upon but consistency is the aim for a player who still has time on his side.