Mick McCarthy has delivered some big praise for Luca Connell, as quoted by RTE.
Earlier this month the Daily Mail reported that Rangers and Norwich were leading the race for the Bolton Wanderers midfielder.
The 18-year-old has impressed so much this season, that he was drafted into the Republic of Ireland senior squad.
However, a thigh injury sustained this week ruled him out of upcoming Euro 2020 Qualifiers against Denmark and Gibraltar.
Connell clearly left an impression upon the manager before injury struck, though.
“He was excellent – he has a lovely personality about him,” McCarthy told RTÉ. “He stood up in training and stood out. I think everybody was impressed with him.”
“He’s just after saying goodbye to all the lads and each and everyone have given him a hug. Everybody took to him as a person and as a player. It’s sad for him to be going as it was a good opportunity for him.”
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Liverpool-born Connell has represented Ireland at U17, U18, and U19 level. However, he will now have to wait to make his senior debut.
It’s a shame for the youngster and his potential suitors. If Gerrard really is interested in bringing him to Ibrox, he would have been paying close attention to ROI’s upcoming fixtures.
Instead, he’ll have to settle for a ringing endorsement from McCarthy.
Meanwhile, a rival SPL club has taken a major step which shows agreement with Rangers.
