Former Rangers striker Andy Little has raved about new signing Gareth McAuley, claiming that “nothing will faze” the 38-year-old at Ibrox.
McAuley joined the Light Blues on a free transfer after leaving West Bromwich Albion at the end of his contract over the summer, with the veteran centre-back a boyhood Gers fan.
The former Ibrox striker has now lavished praise on his former Northern Ireland teammate in a rave review, with Little in no doubt that McAuley would have a big impact for the club this season.
Speaking to the Herald, he said: “Gareth is a really good lad, a brilliant character and a very, very good pro. He would remind me of the likes of Steve Davis, Davie Weir and Carlos Bocanegra.
“He is a top pro, he has been around the game and considering there are a lot of younger players in the squad, he certainly brings experience at the back. Nikola Katic and Joe Worrall are only 21 and Connor Goldson is not that old either.
“If Gareth gets his opportunity in there, nothing will faze him and he will know how to handle playing for Rangers.”
OPINION
This is a glowing review of McAuley from former teammate Little, and that bodes well for Rangers going forward. McAuley was always going to bring huge experience and leadership qualities to the squad, and that is exactly what Little has highlighted here. Hopefully the veteran can make as much of an impact on the pitch as he will inevitably do off it, with Rangers certain to need the help at the back over the course of the season. First choice pairing Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic have certainly begun the season with huge promise, but there will be times when McAuley will be called upon, and in those moments he must deliver. Little’s comments suggest that the experienced ace will definitely do so, but that will only be clear when he is given the chance to impress by Gerrard. Whether that will be this weekend against Dundee is hard to say, but you would think not considering the form of Goldson and Katic so far.