Ryan Hardie should sign a Rangers contract extension this week, that’s according to a Record Sport report.
The 21-year-old’s current deal expires in May this year, but it seems Steven Gerrard is keen to tie the player’s long-term future to the club.
Hardie was recalled from his loan, specifically in order to be part of the Gers’ Tenerife training camp last week.
He had been injured when Gerrard arrived and then on loan at Livingston, so it was the manager’s first opportunity to evaluate the striker up close.
With a new deal now reportedly on the table, the audition clearly went well.
However, according to the same report, a new contract won’t necessarily block a loan move back to Livingston.
Hardie had a fantastic first half of the season at the Tony Macaroni.
He netted five time in five starts after recovering from a serious injury.
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Verdict:
Given the promise that this young player has shown this season, extending his Rangers deal beyond the summer was high priority.
Once he signs on the dotted line though, a temporary return to the Lions makes sense.
He clearly enjoyed the initial spell and it gives opportunities for game time that simply aren’t available at Ibrox.
Staying at Ibrox would mean competition with Defoe, Morelos and Lafferty.
For now, being Gary Holt’s main man at Livi, will be better for his development.
