Scottish Premiership outfit, Rangers, have signed Declan John permanently on a three-and-a-half year deal from Championship club, Cardiff City. John was signed by the Gers on loan in the summer and he has really impressed so far at the absence of Lee Wallace and the news of making him sign a permanent deal didn’t really come as a surprise. He is a youngster with a fine calibre and there exists no doubt about the same.
John emerged through the youth ranks of the Bluebirds and despite being promoted to their senior side, he failed to cement his place. Loan spells with Barnsley and Chesterfield hardly enable him to realize his potential and it was only after his move to the Ibrox Stadium that he started performing to the best of his capabilities. A left-back by trade, he has played 13 league games for Rangers and has scored 3 goals in the process.
He fell out of favour when Neil Warnock and was eventually shipped out on loan. His contract with Cardiff City was set to expire in the summer and it has been reported that he was a subject of interest from Championship clubs such as Reading and Leeds United. The 22-year-old is an industrious fullback and has shown time and again whilst plying his trade for the Light Blues this season that he possesses a notable affinity towards contributing heavily to his side’s offensive endeavours and is the kind of young blood every side wants in their arsenal.
The Welsh international showcases ingredients of a modern-day full-back as he prefers to dribble down the left and try to cross dangerous balls into the box. His pace is notable and Graeme Murty has been reaping the dividends of trusting the youngster. Now that Murty has been appointed as the permanent manager by Rangers, it goes without saying that he would be getting regular game time under his belt if he continues to perform in a dazzling manner.
He has adjusted himself in the Scottish domestic competitions quite easily and no wonder why the Teddy Bears seemed reluctant to lose their hold over his services. However, his defensive qualities are still far from being commendable, and frankly speaking, he isn’t a great tackler and doesn’t have a daunting physical presence. Nonetheless, he has the factor of age by his side and with the confidence he has, he should be able to brush himself further in the days to come.
