RANGERS centre-back Rob Kiernan is good enough to play in the Champions League.
That’s the verdict of Ibrox assistant manager, Davie Weir.
Kiernan has been the subject of criticism for much of his Light Blues career but scored his first-ever goal for the club against Hearts last weekend.
Weir knows more than most about defending, and works with the club’s rearguard on a daily basis.
He believes the 25-year-old has a big future in the game.
“He’s young, and he has every attribute to be a Premier League, a Champions League defender,” said Weir. “He’s two-footed and a real specimen. You couldn’t build him to look any more like a centre-half.
“He’s learning. This is the highest level he’s played at, so he’s getting tested and he’ll make mistakes. But don’t we all?”
Weir sees Kiernan beginning to show leadership on the pitch, and believes that is being helped by keeping the company of some experienced campaigners.
He went on: “I think learning about how to be a leader is part of the process.
“Playing alongside Clint Hill and listening to Philippe Senderos every day can only help him.
“He and Danny Wilson are getting that benefit. Last year it was the two of them with very little help. But this year there’s help and competition.
“That’s the environment where you’ll get better.
“Obviously it’s a challenge because if you have a bad game, you’re hopeless – that’s the way it works up here.
“You have to fight that mental battle when it happens.”
Weir says there’s progress with other young players recruited by Rangers.
He said: “We’re getting to the point where we know our jobs and roles, and it’ll get better.
“You look at Jordan Rossiter, Josh Windass and Matt Crooks, guys who haven’t yet had that consistent run.
“Once those young players get that, there is the foundation for what, given time, could be top Rangers players.
“If you’re not spending £100m then it has to be slow steps, and as much patience as you’re allowed.”
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