Rangers must pay what it takes to tie down 6ft 1in ace after reported quit fears emerge

Mon 19 March 2018 13:12, UK

COMMENT

Rangers must do everything they can to keep hold of defender David Bates this summer.

The giant of a defender has so far failed to agree to new terms with the Ibrox outfit according to the Scottish Sun despite extensive talks.

But after starting the last nine league games for the Gers, he has become an integral member of Graeme Murty’s side and his partnership with Rusell Martin has been key to their improvement in league form.

And after limping off early on with ankle ligament damage during the Light Blues defeat at home in the Old Firm derby, Bates’ importance to the side was no more evident.

A lot has been said about the outcome of the Celtic clash had the enforcer made it through the 90 minutes, but that’s all if, buts, and maybes.

Defensively, Murty’s men fell to pieces once the former Raith Rovers man left the field of play, and his absence in the 1-0 loss to Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday once again highlighted his influence on the side.

With Bruno Alves back in the side, it’s clear that the strength in depth isn’t there and without the presence of Bates at the back they face a struggle to finish second in the league.