Ally McCoist can still remember the day when Mo Johnston stunned Celtic by turning down a return to Parkhead in favour of donning the blue of Rangers.
At the time – the summer of 1989 – a player ticking off both Old Firm clubs was a rarity indeed.
In fact, Johnston would be only the second post-World War Two to go from the green and white of Celtic to the royal blue of Rangers, or vice versa.
Though, as Ally McCoist now explains, the prospect of a player representing both clubs either side of the Glasgow divide is ‘probably not as big a deal as it was years and years ago’.
Speculation suggesting Rangers could snap up Greg Taylor once his Celtic contract expires, then, is maybe unlikely to stir up quite so much controversy as it would have done in decades past.
- READ MORE: Who Has The Most Old Firm Wins of All-Time?
Speaking to the Daily Record, a former teammate of Mo Johnston at Ibrox agrees with the likes of Kris Boyd that Greg Taylor is a signing who would strengthen Rangers’ first XI. A 14-time Scotland international destined to end the season – and potentially his Celtic career – with five Scottish Premiership winner’s medals.
At just 27, Taylor is arguably yet to hit his peak. Furthermore, he actually spent six years in the Rangers academy before making his name at Kilmarnock. This is most certainly not a case akin to, say, Scott Brown or Neil Lennon crossing the barrier in their own green-clad playing days.
“He absolutely could get in the team and play, I don’t have any doubt about that,” McCoist argues. “He’s a good player. I definitely think he could play in the team.”
There is a difference, however, between whether Greg Taylor would suit Rangers and whether Rangers really need Greg Taylor in the first place.
McCoist points out that two talented young left-backs are already under contract at Ibrox. And while neither Ridvan Yilmaz nor Jefte have reached the same heights yet as Celtic’s long-serving number three, there is still plenty of time for both to make good on their undoubted potential.
McCoist urges Rangers to stick with Ridvan Yilmaz and Jefte
Ahead of a summer where Rangers arguably need a Jack Butland replacement, at least one centre-half, a couple of wingers and perhaps a striker too, a new left-sided full-back should be a long way down the list of requirements.
“The only thing I would say is, you have two left-sided players there already in Yilmaz and Jefte,” McCoist argues. “So, for that reason, he’s not a priority. I think Rangers have got far bigger priorities in terms of positions that they should address and will address.
“But if you are asking me if he’s good enough to play in the team? Without a doubt.
“I was around when wee Mo did it. So, after wee Mo, anything is possible! It wouldn’t be as big a deal as wee Mo. There’s nothing that would be as big a deal as wee Mo. You talk about Kenny Miller, Alfie Conn… I don’t think it’s such a big deal as years gone by.
”[But] I just can’t see it happening because Rangers have got two left-sided players in that position. It would be madness for Rangers to go and strengthen in that position where they’ve got cover and they need strengthening in other positions.
“If I’m manager of Rangers, I need to get the best players available to play for Rangers, to improve them and move them forward. If it’s Celtic, Hibs or Aberdeen, it doesn’t matter. You need to strengthen the team.”
Rangers have already secured the services of one player who should enhance their roster considerably.
Talks are underway between Rangers and Dundee regarding Lyall Cameron’s eventual transfer fee, with the Dens Park outfit due compensation.
