I don’t want to tell Ross Wilson how to do his job, however, when there is a top-quality goalkeeper available for nothing who wants to return to British football, I feel it would be negligent not to let him know. If he doesn’t already that is.
Nikita Haikin looks likely to be the latest of Bodo/Glimt’s successful side to leave the Norwegian outfit with the Russian born stopper’s contract expiring at the end of this calendar year – he’s not just available on a pre-contract agreement, he could arrive in January if an offer was made.
And, if his previous comments are anything to go by, the much-travelled, 27-year old would welcome a return to British shores having spent time at Chelsea, Portsmouth and Reading as a youngster. Speaking to The Herald last year before taking on Celtic, Haikin said of his future when asked about a potential move:
“That’s my goal. It’s possible.
“I’m happy where I am now though and let’s see what the future holds.
“I really miss English football and the culture. I can relate to it, and having experienced it I know how it tastes.
“I think it’s normal, the majority of players around the world I would say are aiming to get to English football, or British football.
“It’s not in my hands or in my control. I just want to do my best here, give 100 percent and see where it is going to take me.
“That’s the beauty of it, you never know.”
Between Haikin and Vladan Kovacevic, Rangers have been linked with some very impressive keepers, although the latter would cost significantly more seeing as Benfica were touted for a £6million move into summer.
It just makes sense. A keeper with a history of success at his last club in a comparable league playing a style of football that suits what we need. Not only that but he has experience of European football and can speak the language.
We desperately need a long-term solution and Haikin is exactly that, over to you Mr Wilson.