Rangers loanee James Maxwell has set his sights on a first-team breakthrough at Ibrox following his outstanding Scottish Cup goal for Queen of the South against Hibernian [Scotsman].
The 19-year-old left-back has been on loan at Palmerston Park since the beginning of the season and now has fellow Gers prospects Rhys Breen, Dapo Mebude and Ciaran Dickson for company.
He’s impressed with his consistency and has racked up 27 appearances across all competitions.
The Scotland youth international netted his third goal of the campaign on Monday evening against Premiership outfit Hibs, wowing James McFadden with a superb solo run and finish live on BBC Scotland.
Maxwell is pleased with his efforts so far at QoS and wants to follow in the footsteps of Nathan Patterson upon his return to Ibrox.
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“I wasn’t sure what to expect really – it was my first season in professional football,” he said [Scotsman]. “I didn’t know whether I would be in and out and getting games here and there. But I have played nearly every game so I am absolutely delighted with how it’s worked out.”
“Nathan [Patterson] is flying at the moment and he has definitely taken his opportunity really well. He is doing well every game. I think that gives a lift to everybody. He got his chance and took it and he’s staying in the side now. Hopefully, I can go back and replicate that and take my chance.
“I have a year left so I am not sure what Rangers are planning in terms of next season – I need to speak to them about it.”
Maxwell’s future Gers first-team prospects may depend to an extent on whether or not current left-back options Borna Barisic and Calvin Bassey remain with the club beyond the summer.
However, he’s certainly given himself the best chance of featuring in Steven Gerrard’s plans, with his goal against Hibs an exciting taster of what he’s capable of on the big stage.
Meanwhile, a striker Rangers are reportedly likely to sign on a free transfer in the summer has gone two months without a goal.