Rangers TV pundit issues verdict on Souttar joining this month after what he’s heard from senior duo
Alan Hutton has tipped Rangers to seal the signing of John Souttar from Hearts this month after agreeing pre-contract terms.
The former Gers defender and Rangers TV pundit, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the fury of the Hearts fans means it is in “everybody’s best interests” to get a deal done.
As confirmed on Friday (14 January), Souttar has signed a pre-contract agreement to join Rangers on a free transfer this summer.
Hearts boss Robbie Neilson, speaking to the Scottish Sun on Monday (17 January), has admitted the defender could move this month if a suitable bid is tabled.
Former Hearts manager and director of football Craig Levein, speaking to BBC Sport Scotland Sportsound (16 January), questioned if Souttar could be fully committed to Hearts now he has signed a pre-contract.
However, Hutton claims the reaction of the fans could be the driving force to get a deal done this month.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I get where Craig Levein’s coming from.
“Is he going to go into full-blooded challenges when he knows he’s going to Rangers at the end of the term? I don’t think that’s a problem. He’s a very combative footballer.
“I think the biggest problem surrounding the whole situation is how the fans react. It can be difficult for the player. You know he’s leaving at the end of the year to go to what is a rival.
“How do they take to him? Does opinion change on him? It can be difficult for the player as well, a loss of confidence if the fans are on your back and things like that.
“It’s in everybody’s best interest if they can strike some sort of deal to allow him to go this month.
“Then he’s got the time to bed in, hit the ground running and then look forward to next season.
“In my opinion, it will happen. It’s probably just a matter of time before it does.”
Souttar played the full 90 minutes for Hearts in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over St Johnstone.
Neilson praised the defender after he received boos and jeers from the Tynecastle faithful.
In other news, pundit makes “unfinished business” claim at Rangers after player reveal via Sky Sports.