As Philippe Clement takes charge at Rangers, in Bailey Rice the Belgian might just have his answer to Barry Ferguson a la Dick Advocaat.
The incoming Ibrox boss has been clear that developing young talents is part of his modus operandi in Govan and in Bailey Rice Rangers have one of Scotland’s top young midfield talents.
As several of the club’s first-team stars played for David McCallum’s B Team this week, it was Bailey Rice stealing the show with a fine assist for Ross McAusland’s goal in a 3-2 defeat against Breidablik.
A stunning over the top through ball from Bailey Rice was lashed home by young Northern Irishman McCausland and it’s an assist that a young Barry Ferguson would’ve been proud of.
As Philippe Clement assesses his squad perhaps the Belgian can look to a Dick Advocaat masterstroke when it comes to Bailey Rice who is very much knocking on the door at Rangers.
Bailey Rice to Philippe Clement as Barry Ferguson was to Dick Advocaat?
Back in 1998, Barry Ferguson emerged as a key player under the newly appointed Dick Advocaat and never looked back as he rose through the ranks to become Rangers captain.
A bonafide Rangers legend – and the club’s last treble-winning captain – it was a decision which sent shockwaves through the annals of Rangers history.
Whilst Barry Ferguson had been given first-team exposure under Walter Smith – and at 20 was three years older than 17-year-old Bailey Rice when Advocaat took charge – perhaps Philippe Clement is taking note.
There are clear similarities as Rangers look for a fresh energy and enthusiasm in their squad with the likes of Leon King and Ross McCausland also skirting around the edges.
But with Bailey Rice widely regarded as one of the hottest properties in Scottish football all eyes are on Philippe Clement and Rangers with regards how they utilise the teenager.
Prior to his sacking, Michael Beale claimed that despite his tender years Bailey Rice was ready for more first-team exposure at Rangers.
The onus is now on Philippe Clement to give the midfielder those minutes and it’s hard to deny those shades of Barry Ferguson both in Bailey Rice’s style and the situation with the club’s new manager.
