Rangers boss Mark Warburton plays down rumours of Michael O’Halloran loan move to Hearts

RANGERS boss Mark Warburton admits he feels sympathy for out-of-favour Michael O’Halloran.

The former St Johnstone forward has struggled to make an impact since joining Gers for £500,000 last year.

And reports this week suggest Hearts are leading a pack of four Ladbrokes Premiership clubs looking to strike a short-term loan deal for the 26-year-old.

But Warburton insists he has yet to hear from the Jambos and confirmed O’Halloran is part of the Light Blues squad preparing for Saturday’s William Hill Scottish Cup clash with Motherwell at Ibrox.

However, he did concede the former Bolton man, who has made just five league starts this term, needs the chance to play after becoming frustrated by his lack of action.

He said: “I’ve read some bizarre stories that Michael is off to Hearts.

“I’m sure Ian Cathro would have called me (if he was interested). He, I’m sure, knew nothing about it and neither do I.

“It is just one of many stories where players are linked with (moves), where players are going out.

“Until the window closes, you are never sure.

“From our point of view, Michael is one of our players and will be involved on Saturday.

“Michael is one of many players who wants to play. He needs games. It’s the life of a manager that players will be banging on the door if they don’t get enough pitch time.

“I can understand their frustration. Players want to play. My job is to be honest with them, to keep communicating with them and work with them every day on the training pitch.

“Hopefully they get their chance and are in a position to take it.”