There will be a few members of Steven Gerrard’s squad likely to be getting watched by teams in the Premier League, the ability to pick up a relative bargain for players with European and international experience, as well as ones who have proven they can cope with the goldfish bowl of life in the Old Firm likely to be an attractive proposition.
One man who we beat off English interest from to sign is Joe Aribo, who Barry Ferguson has claimed that clubs will be looking at, the 25-year old’s flexibility and competence in a range of positions, in different tactical plans, make him perfect for any of the top five leagues.
Another former Ger has agreed with Fergie’s comments, Alan Hutton believing that it is only a matter of time before someone makes a move for him, as told to Football Insider:
“He’s got all the attributes to be a top player in the English League. There’s no doubt about that.
“It was a big opportunity to come up to Scotland and play for a big club on the big stage.
“I’m pretty sure he’s like every player who wants to play the highest level possible.
“What I like about him is he’s totally focused on the job in hand. You don’t really hear any of the rumours circulating him ever really.
“He’s just all about his performances for Rangers, which is a great thing. Barry Ferguson’s right, there’ll be a number of clubs watching a number of players.
“That’s just part of playing for a big club. Hopefully, he continues his form with Rangers.”
Hutton is right, Aribo will only get better as he challenges himself more, at every stage, Europa League and for Nigeria, he has shown that he belongs there, for a start he has the physicality and technical ability to cope with playing against a higher standard of opposition week in, week out.
There were a few rumours in the summer, but nothing concrete, although if anyone did want to take him off our hands they would have to pay a hefty transfer fee, that we managed to sign him for just a £300,000 compensation fee is still an incredible piece of business but won’t have any bearing on what Ross Wilson sets his value at – a 6ft 3inch midfielder, who can score goals, create them for others, play as a number 10 or a left-back?
Form an orderly queue.