McLeish issues Ross Barkey verdict after ‘giant’ Rangers update – ‘one hell of a talent’
Ross Barkley may not have the mentality to be a Rangers player amid links with a move to Ibrox.
That’s according to former Gers boss Alex McLeish, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the latest on Barkley’s future.
On Monday (29 August), Chelsea announced the midfielder had left the club by mutual consent.
On Tuesday (30 August) Football Scotland reported Barkley’s agent “floated” the player’s name to Rangers’ recruitment team in a recent meeting.
McLeish insists Barkley has the ability to be a successful player but admitted concerns over his mentality.
“Difficult one, Ross hasn’t been able to cement his career anywhere,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Ben Wild.
“When I see him come on the pitch I see one hell of a great talent there. I was at a game last season when Chelsea demolished Norwich 7-0, Barkley came on midway through the game and you saw the classic touches he has.
“He just hasn’t been able to put that together consistently. Whether he can come to a giant club like Rangers and see the mentality of that dressing room.
“He is definitely a good player but Rangers will be looking at why he hasn’t been able to do too well. Aaron Ramsey will be in the back of their minds as well.
“He was never fit. What is Barkley now? 28? I hate to see a player wasting his talent. This guy has some talent, to not put that all together, it just makes you wonder a wee bit, mentality-wise.”
Barkley made 14 appearances for Chelsea last season.
He scored once in six Premier League outings.
In other news, an expert has told Rangers to complete striker signing after £13m development.