Glenn Middleton’s temporary departure has been confirmed by Rangers with the news that the winger is set to head out on loan to St Johnstone for the remainder of the season.
The Scotland Under-21 international has had a frustrating last couple of seasons which has stunted his development and he will be keen to get a consistent run of games in Perth under Callum Davidson, a manager who has been a breath of fresh air with his approach to the game in his debut season.
It looks, on paper, like it should be a good fit, Middleton is a hard working player with pace to burn and is a huge asset on the counter attack, the Saints have adopted a pressing game which is similar to our own and should get the best out of a youngster who has all the physical attributes to make it in the game.
Steven Gerrard has spoken before about Middleton potentially adapting to become a left-back and given how our full-backs play, there is no reason why he couldn’t end up in this position, he has a good delivery from wide but would obviously have to work on the defensive aspect of his game.
We can be too quick to write young players off at Rangers and having just turned 21, he still has plenty of time ahead of him to develop, he made enough of an impact in Gerrard’s first season as a teenager to suggest that he has the mental strength required to wear the famous Light Blue shirt.
It’s not quite make or break time for Middleton but after an unsuccessful loan spell at Hibernian and an aborted one at Bradford City, he will be keen to make up for the last 18-months and get back to doing what he does best – creating chances and scoring goals.