Rangers coach outlines key attribute that makes Ianis Hagi such a vital player for Ibrox side

Ianis Hagi’s status as risk-taker is why he’s such a vital component of Steven Gerrard’s champions-in-waiting, according to Rangers assistant manager Gary McAllister.
Rangers attacker Ianis Hagi celebrates after scoring the only goal of the game against St Johnstone. Picture: SNSRangers attacker Ianis Hagi celebrates after scoring the only goal of the game against St Johnstone. Picture: SNS
Rangers attacker Ianis Hagi celebrates after scoring the only goal of the game against St Johnstone. Picture: SNS

The Romanian playmaker scored the only goal of the game as the Ibrox side re-established their 23-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table with a 1-0 victory over a plucky St Johnstone side.

Hagi cut in from the right wing, charged across the edge of the penalty box and dispatched a powerful low drive into the bottom corner of the net.

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Though he can sometimes split opinion among the support and isn’t necessarily looked upon as a definite starter, Hagi’s penchant for taking chances in the final third is a quality that’s hugely appreciated by the management staff.

“Ianis is a player who takes risks, he plays in inches and plays in an area of the pitch where teams try to make it very difficult for us. The low block and packed defences is something that we are accustomed to playing against,” explained McAllister.

"When I look at Ianis, I see a player of flair, but I also like the bravery in his play. The fact that he goes for passes, he goes for shots, he takes the responsibility.

“On occasions, sometimes the shots go high and wide and sometimes if he goes for a cute little through pass it might get intercepted. But I like the fact that he is brave and he takes the chance to go for those high level assists and goals.”

As McAllister would add, Hagi is far from the only player in the Rangers squad capable of making something happen out of nothing, as evidenced by the league-leading 67 goals struck in 27 games.

He continued: “Likewise, we have Kemar Roofe, Kenty, and Scott Wright who we have just signed. These are the sort of players who we need to show that imagination and that cuteness. It is a bravery thing as well.

"These guys are the first to get criticised when things don’t go well, the flair player is the one people say ‘he is not working that hard’. But I like that we have guys who take the risk.”

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