Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has raved about Ianis Hagi and insists there is “still more to come” from the Romania international at Ibrox [RangersTV].
Hagi joined the Gers on loan from Belgian club Genk in January 2020 before making the switch permanent in the summer for a fee in the region of £3m [Scottish Sun].
The 22-year-old, who is contracted until 2024, was in and out of the side during the opening months of the season, with his performances lacking consistency.
His form has improved in recent times, though, and he’s been rewarded with six starts in Rangers’ last seven Premiership matches.
Hagi has scored four times in all competitions and is the joint-top assist-maker in the Premiership with nine.
At a press conference on Tuesday morning, Gerrard waxed lyrical about his player’s attitude and says he’s excited about what he will offer going forward.
“We are really happy with Ianis,” said the Gers boss [RangersTV]. “He’s a joy to work with, he’s a student of the game and he’s always looking at areas to improve, whether that be from a physical point of view, tactically or technically.”
“He’s someone you have to drag off the training ground, he is always in the analysis department, he’s never out of the gym. He’s an absolute dream to work with. He’s very low maintenance. We’re delighted with how he’s developing and progressing.”
“We’re delighted to have him here but he’s one that we are still trying to push in all kinds of different areas to keep him evolving and growing because we still think there’s more to come. That’s the exciting part.”
Hagi scored the only goal of the game when the Gers last came up against Hibs on Boxing Day at Ibrox and he’ll be looking to make a big contribution again if he is named in the starting XI at Easter Road on Wednesday night.
A win for Gerrard’s side in the capital will guarantee that they at least maintain their 23-point lead at the top of the table, with Celtic in action against Hamilton at Parkhead.
Meanwhile, former Rangers director of football Gordon Smith has told Rangers News he sees a big future for the “outstanding” Nathan Patterson at Ibrox, after the 19-year-old full-back signed a contract extension.