Glen Middleton’s Rangers career is off to an absolute flyer, and it’s all because of one man.
No, not Steven Gerrard. He appears to be the answer to most positive Rangers-related questions these days. Instead, we’re talking about Graeme Murty.
Sure, the under-20 manager and former Rangers first-team head wasn’t the greatest success at Ibrox. In fact, let’s be honest, he was poor despite initially giving Gers fans flashes of optimism.
There was one decision he made, however, that’s going to turn out to be an absolute cracker. That’s the signing of young Middleton.
Gerrard now finds himself in the fortunate position of developing this young star, who’s bound to be a first-team regular in the future. He’s already provided him with eight appearances this season as well as a European debut.
Impressive start to life at Rangers
It was his performance in Villarreal that really announced himself to supporters also. His work in the build-up to Kyle Lafferty’s crucial strike was marvellous. It showed the sign of a highly-promising youngster with a mature head on his shoulders.
He also bagged his first Rangers goal against Dundee, and has been bright in every game he’s come on for the club. A recent brace against Ayr United only shot himself even further into stardom. The fact he’s only 18 years of age shows you just how much growth he has left in him. His hunger is also extremely impressive, as he looks determined to thrive with this huge opportunity life has provided him with.
Perhaps seeing consistent football week-in, week-out isn’t possible at this stage of his career. He needs time to develop and to get his bearings at the club. As well as that, he needs to continue impressing Gerrard at the Hummel Training Centre.
It’s also important not to place too much pressure on Middleton’s shoulders at such a young age. As promising as he looks, he’ll still only develop in his own time. What’s really exciting supporters, however, is how ready he already looks in terms of featuring for the club.
Everyone is going to be keeping an eye on certainly the most exciting youth product since Billy Gilmour. One man who deserves to watch over his development with pride, however, is Murty.
Sure, he didn’t do a lot right as Rangers manager. But signing Middleton up is proving to be a lovely parting gift to the Rangers support.
