Kenny Miller is adamant that one Rangers star will be shortlisted for the end of season player of the year gongs.
The former Ibrox striker turned pundit was reacting to the reports that Jack Butland is close to an England recall five-and-a-half years since earning his last cap.
That was against Switzerland for a friendly against Italy at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium. Since then, Butland hasn’t had a look in and fell right behind the likes of Jordan Pickford, Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale.
But in heading to Rangers, Butland has went on to rediscover his best form. According to FotMob, Butland has kept the most clean sheets in the Scottish Premiership this season (17) and also boasts the highest save percentage at just under 80%.
England boss Gareth Southgate is clearly taking notice and reports suggest the manager has Butland ‘in contention’ for a call-up ahead of the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.
Craig Moore fully believes Butland deserves the England nod, as does his club boss Philippe Clement. And Kenny Miller is in full agreement.
Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, Miller thinks Butland is right up there with the likes of England No1 Pickford in terms of quality and also tipped the Rangers stopper to be shortlisted for the Player of the Year at the end of the campaign.
Kenny Miller on Jack Butland
Miller told programme host Gordon Duncan: “I think it (an England call-up) would be fully deserved. When you look at the England goalkeepers, there are certain ones who are not getting the game time.
“I don’t think Jack Butland is any worse than any of them to be honest with you. I think when you’re playing at a big club and you’re fighting on all kinds of fronts, you’re playing in Europe and able to showcase your ability.
“He might not have a lot to do but he does very, very well. And even listening to him, he’s a class act since he came to the football club.
“The way he speaks, the way he carries himself and the influence he’s having, not just on the back four but the rest of his teammates, he’s been an incredible signing.
“And for me, I think he will be shortlisted for the Player of the Year. Whether he wins it or not is another question but at this moment in time, he’s definitely got to be right up there.”
