Pundit Opinion: ‘Rangers will consider signing’ defender McGregor previously labeled ‘Phenomenal’
Craig Moore says Rangers are considering Ryan Porteous in the transfer market as the defender struggles for game time at Watford.
Speaking on the GoRadio Football Show on January 8, Moore suggested that if Ryan Porteous leaves Vicarage Road this month, he would be a strong candidate for a return to the Premiership, having started his career at Hibernian.
Porteous appears set to depart Watford, with Hull City and Sheffield United both showing interest, according to HullLive.
The player, described as “phenomenal” by former teammate Darren McGregor in December 2018, is highly sought after, and the Bears face competition in securing his services.
Moore was quoted by the Daily Record on January 9, saying: “He understands the domestic game thoroughly.
If he’s not getting game time at Watford, players like him are certainly ones I’d consider.
If they’re not playing down south, they are a solid option.
We know he’d be perfectly fine here. He’s not going to encounter anything unfamiliar. He’s already experienced it all.
He will be one of several options Rangers will likely explore.”
With three major clubs after him, Porteous has a variety of choices for his next move, each with its own advantages and disadvantages for the 25-year-old.
Sheffield United, though currently battling injuries like Rangers, are strong contenders for promotion.
However, Porteous may not secure a regular place in the team if he moves there.
In contrast, Hull City is fighting relegation, which would likely guarantee Porteous more game time.
However, moving to a club at risk of relegation to the third tier might not appeal to him.
A move to Ibrox could offer a balanced opportunity.
Rangers are in dire need of central defensive reinforcements following injuries, and Porteous could find himself playing an important role.
Once John Souttar returns from his injury, he will likely partner either Robin Propper, Leon Balogun, or Porteous in defense, meaning there could be significant competition and the possibility of extended spells on the bench.
However, with Balogun being 36 and out of contract, and Propper failing to impress in a Rangers shirt, Ibrox could be the ideal environment for Porteous to rediscover his “phenomenal” potential and fulfill his promise.
