Steven Gerrard has cleared up some controversy surrounding Ross McCrorie’s loan move in an interview with RangersTV.
The 21-year-old midfielder finalised a switch down south on Friday, as he joins Portsmouth on a season-long loan.
Thankfully, though, it transpires that there’s no such clause in the contract.
“There’s no deal for him to go there permanent,” Gerrard
“He told me he was desperate for 40-50 games and I agreed with him. I think that’ll be really good for his development. I could have been selfish and kept him here as a squad player, but maybe being a squad player won’t develop him or move him along as quick as we want.
“He’s our player and we want him here for a long time and we want to help him get to the next level. Hopefully, he’ll come back with 40-50 games under his belt, a better player ready to challenge the lads who’ve got the shirts. He’s certainly one of ours and I’ve got big plans for Ross McCrorie.”
Verdict
This is a great piece of news for Rangers fans.
Reports of an option to buy clause did seem senseless, but it’s good to hear confirmation that McCrorie’s long-term future lies at Ibrox.
The Scotland U21 skipper is a precious homegrown talent who needs to be nurtured. After excellent displays in Old Firms and in tough European ties, it’s already clear that he can make it at Ibrox. Some even feel he’s destined for the captaincy down the line.
However, for now, perhaps this move is the best thing for him. He’s currently stuck behind Glen Kamara in the pecking order and moving to Pompey will allow him regular football at a good standard, with a team pushing for promotion.