'He Leaves...' - Pundit expects Clement to sell Rangers ace despite faultless attitude

Philippe Clement remains unconvinced by Ianis Hagi so a Rangers exit for the attacking midfielder would be no surprise, says Derek Ferguson.

The ex-Ibrox midfielder has been impressed by the Romanian’s commitment and his attitude during a season which saw him exiled in the B Team for months, but doesn’t think the manager is particularly moved.

A contract dispute was seemingly the root cause of Hagi being excluded from the first-team picture until the start of October, at which point a deal was reached where the 26-year-old sacrificed a wage increase he would have been due in order to return to the fold [Daily Record, 1 October].

Tam McManus suggested that move was only to put him in the shop window for the rest of the season and tipped a summer transfer exit [PLZ Soccer, 7 October].

And while Ferguson is sure that if the 43-cap international is given the chance to make an impact this term he will give his all, he is far less certain that such an opportunity will arrive so admits an exit could happen.

Clement had previously indicated there was no chance Hagi would even play for the club again during the late summer [Daily Mail, 31 August], before seemingly wavering and suggesting the decision had been partially made by others.

A red card in his first game back against St Johnstone on 6 October complicated Hagi’s return, and means he has made just two substitute appearances in total this season.

Derek Ferguson unsurprised by possible Rangers exit for Ianis Hagi

Ferguson exclusively told Ibrox News: “I tell you what, his mindset, I don’t think that’s in question. If he’s asked to go and perform and gets an opportunity I think he’ll give you everything, I just think he’s that type of boy.

“Is he going to be the manager’s first choice? I’m not so sure. I’ve got a feeling deep down with Clement, I don’t think he fancies him to be honest.

“What he clearly needed, because we’ve been struggling with so many injuries, a deal had to be struck where they brought him back into the squad.

“So with Hagi I wouldnae be surprised if he leaves in the summer, but what you’re going to get with him is a good attitude.

“And if he gets an opportunity he’ll go out and give you 100 per cent, but whether he’ll get the opportunity is another question.”

In other Rangers news, Brendan Rodgers is thought likely to be quietly pleased that the Light Blues haven’t brought in a linked manager who has caused him problems.

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