There could be two big beneficiaries of the potential exit of Calvin Bassey at Rangers, following claims regarding his future at the club.
Recent reports have come in claiming that the 22-year-old could soon be on his way out of Ibrox.
Football Insider is claiming that West Ham United are set to take a look at Bassey ahead of a move during the summer transfer window. This would be the second time that Bassey has been on the Hammers’ radar, as the report also claims that they wanted to sign him when he was at Leicester City, only for him to opt to move north of the border instead.
And whilst it’s not necessarily a guarantee that he will leave the club, there could be two players in the side who will benefit greatly from seeing him make the move to east London if he does depart.
Nobody to get in the way
One player who could see the benefits of Bassey leaving is Borna Barisic.
The 29-year-old left-back has more or less made the left-back position his own during this campaign, however, there have been times this season where the two men have fought it out for the same spot at left-back.
But with Bassey out of the picture, he won’t have to worry about having to keep looking over his shoulder to keep him at bay and out of the starting eleven, and will instead be able to focus on his own game.
A chance to become a bigger part of the team
And whilst one player might be looking to secure his place in the side, one youngster could use this as a chance to make a breakthrough and be given the opportunity to impress.
With Bassey also able to play as a central defender, his exit could provide an opportunity for young James Sands to get a run in the side. Sands is on loan at Rangers until the end of next season, and whilst he has had to play in central midfield for them so far, Bassey’s exit could allow him to play at centre-back – a position he’s more naturally suited to.
Will Giovanni van Bronckhorst succeed at Rangers?
Yes
No
With Sands only on loan at Rangers, you feel that he needs to be played in his best position in order to earn a permanent deal. And playing at in defence rather than in central midfield might be the best way for him to do that.
So if he is given a chance and he takes it, Sands would also save Giovanni van Bronckhorst from having to source an alternative replacement for Bassey.
In other news: Van Bronckhorst gets cash boost, 21 y/o handed Ibrox lifeline: Rangers rumour emerges – opinion