Barry Ferguson believes Bailey Rice can be in the Rangers engine room for 15 YEARS.
The Record Sport columnist and legendary Ibrox skipper is a huge fan of the midfielder and is in no doubt he is ready to be a mainstay in Philippe Clement’s side. He’s started to get a taste of top team action under the Belgian – including a composed and bright second half showing in the Europa League against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
That performance in particular told and showed Ferguson all he needed to know about the 18-year-old. Nico Raskin, Connor Barron and Mohamed Diomande provide the competition for midfield jerseys currently while Dundee star Lyall Cameron arrives in the summer after penning a pre-contract. Fergie concedes the incoming midfielder has a ‘start’ on the current Ibrox youngster when it comes to experience and top team appearances – but is is certain Rice is ready and will grab his opportunity.
He told Go Radio: “I have said it for a number of years. I have seen quite a bit of him and he is a player that has the chances of a real bright future at Rangers He’s now getting a bit of game time. Lyall Cameron has signed so their is competition for places. There is no doubt he has the ability and it is just getting that taste for it and the hunger for more. I heard the manager saying off the ball he wasn’t too happy with things he can do better. It is up to young Bailey to go and work on that.
“I don’t see him day in, day out. But what I have seen of him, he has the capabilities to play in the Rangers first-team. At 18 years of age I have seen enough to say he has a chance to be a Rangers player for the next 10-15 years. Lyall Cameron has played over 100 games, that is brilliant experience. Not just in the Premiership but also the Championship. That is where he has a start on him but look, Bailey has an opportunity now. I thought he came on against Manchester United at Old Trafford and he was exceptional. He wanted the ball and didn’t see overwhelmed with the occasion and who he was up against. That tells me a lot about him. Bailey Rice in my opinion is good enough to be playing.”
Meanwhile, Scott Arfield has had a host of big names wishing him all the best after returning to Falkirk. The Championship title chasers brought back the former Rangers midfielder on a six-month deal with potential for a further season – much to the delight of the Bairns faithful. The 36-year-old is adored at the club and shared pictures – including his name with his No37 shirt – back at the stadium in Falkirk gear, he wrote: “Delighted to be back where the journey began.”
Former boss Steven Gerrard replied: “Best of luck.” while Jermaine Defoe posted: “Love this man.” The likes of Ryan Jack, Steven Davis and Ianis Hagi were also in the comments wishing their good pal all the best for this chapter in his career.