Borna Barisic seemed like an impressive signing in the early part of the season, and the Croatian left-back seemed like a bargain during that phase. However, his time was often plagued with injuries and he never really went on to play too many games on the run. Nevertheless, whenever he was available, he looked bright.
However, now that he has put his injury issues behind, the fullback is struggling to come up with decent performances. There is no doubt that on current form, Andy Halliday is a better option to start in the left-back role.
Halliday who is typically a midfielder is enjoying a resurgence at Ibrox this season after it felt like he was going to be deemed surplus for requirements. However, Gerrard found great use of him in the left back position, and his commitment and desire as a left back often make the difference.
In terms of natural talent, Barisic might triumph over Halliday. However, the Scotsman makes up for it with his grit, determination and work rate. The Croatian has been awful while going forward. Earlier, it felt like Rangers had signed a smashing attack-minded fullback in the summer, but his crossing and link up play down the left with Ryan Kent has been well below par.
Barisic is the second player who hasn’t been the same after his recovery as Lassana Coulibaly too looked impressive in the initial months but faded after his injury issue. Barisic was almost non-existent in the Scottish Cup tie against Aberdeen where Rangers were able to save their skin by earning a draw.
In January, Rangers played a friendly with HJK Helsinki, and Barisic had a slight injury scare. Gerrard meanwhile after the match indicated that he was frustrated with Barisic’s injury troubles and to us, it felt like he was asking the player to man up. He had said, ”I don’t know (On the injury), you’ll have to ask Borna. He had me worried because he tapped the floor about 55 times but I’m not sure, you’ll have to ask Borna but he looks like he’s moving okay now.”
It’s clear that the gaffer took a slight dig at the player when he said he had tapped his foot 55 times.
On the other hand, Halliday has looked far more robust and equipped to take on the challenges of Scottish football. And most importantly, it always seems like he plays for the jersey and is willing to move mountains for Rangers. Therefore there is no doubt to us that Halliday should be the first choice left back at the club right now.
