Greg Docherty spoke to RangersTV following yesterday’s friendly against Oxford United.
The 22-year-old played 60 minutes in the Ibrox fixture, following up a start against TNS and a goal against Mansfield Town.
However, the fact that he featured for an hour just two days before the Europa League Qualifying tie against St Joseph’s suggests he’s unlikely to start in Gibraltar.
Nonetheless, he feels on top of his form and fitness and after talks with the manager, is keen to stake his claim.
“I want to keep improving and keep showing that I am a different player and that I am better for my year away,” Docherty told RangersTV. “I think I came back in better shape fitness wise and I think I have performed in the games leading up to this one and I think I have performed at a high standard in training so it is just about being confident and believing in myself.
“The manager has said that as well just to go and do my thing and show why I picked up a few accolades last year. I feel better for it so I’ll go and push the boys that are ahead of me and try and get in the team.”
Verdict
These comments from Docherty appear to confirm that Stevie G is willing to give the 22-year-old opportunities this season.
That will come as a relief to the player. The midfielder is a lifelong blue nose and is desperate to become a hit at Ibrox.
It appears all the hard work at Shrewsbury last season is paying off. His Player of the Year award shows just how well he fared and gives him a platform from which to build on back at Ibrox.
With multiple quality players competing for midfield spots, Gerrard will have selection conundrums on a weekly basis.
