Rangers sporting director Ross Wilson is clear that the Gers need more homegrown talent in their squad, with the Serie A success of Aaron Hickey, Josh Doig and Lewis Ferguson highlighting why.
Rangers know that UEFA are expecting at least four homegrown players in their European squads, with another four to come from within the country of Scotland.
Homegrown means that the players have either been trained at their club – in this case Rangers or another side in Scotland – for a period of three years before their 21st birthday.
Ross Wilson was discussing the situation at the club’s most recent AGM, where the club’s recruitment head was criticised for the last few windows and namely for the signing of John Souttar despite his injury problems.
The Scotland international has been sidelined all season long and Rangers have been sheepishly tight-lipped about the problem, even if they insist the ex-Hearts man will still contribute during his time at Ibrox.
“We went into the Soutter signing with our eyes open, we believe he will contribute,” said Wilson [Rangers AGM].
“Not every player needs to play 60 matches a season but we need Scottish players.”
Rangers homegrown question raised as Serie A trio impress
All this comes amid controversial links to Hibs defender Ryan Porteous with Ibrox supporters raising an eyebrows or two regarding any prospective move.
But when it comes to homegrown players, the success of one Serie A trio since leaving Scotland should highlight to Rangers the value that can be found on these shores.
Aaron Hickey (£1.5m – Bologna), Josh Doig (£3m – Verona) and Lewis Ferguson (£3m – Bologna) have all impressed since switching Scotland for Serie A and for a combined £7.5m represent huge value for money.
Hickey impressed so much that Premier League Brentford came knocking in the summer and spent a club-record £14m transfer fee to sign the defender.
It highlights to Rangers the value that exists in homegrown players in Scotland beyond just a European quota with all three now suitably outside of the Ibrox club’s price range.
Perhaps the Gers needs to be more direct and forthright with Scottish talent with plenty believing the foundations of some of the best Ibrox sides have come from within the country.
Whilst the first team needs work in this regard, the club continues to take a punt on youth talent from across the country.
