‘I’m not sure’: Ally McCoist thinks ‘very bright’ Leeds United target isn’t ready for the Premier League yet

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Rangers suffered a humiliating defeat last night that saw their Champions League journey end.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side were humbled 7-1 by a ruthless Liverpool team.

Speaking on TalkSPORT (13/10 8:12am), Ally McCoist was speaking about one of Rangers’ young talents.

Teenage defender Leon King was brought on just before half-time due to an injury to Connor Goldson.

Rangers went into the break at 1-1, but conceded six second-half goals, capitulating under the pressure of Liverpool’s attack.

McCoist admitted that he didn’t think King was ready for a move to the Premier League amid ongoing speculation.

Fabrizio Romano reported this week that Leeds have already sent scouts to watch King play.

He’ll be hoping they weren’t present last night after struggling to deal with some of the Premier League’s best attackers.

McCoist thinks King isn’t ready

Speaking on TalkSPORT, McCoist talked up King’s potential ability to one day cope with a move to the Premier League.

“He’s got a chance, he’s definitely got a chance.” McCoist said.

“There’s already talk of one or two clubs in England who are looking at him.

“I’m not sure he’s ready for that yet, to be honest with you, but he’s definitely got a chance.”

King has already made his impression on Van Bronckhorst and is now an established first-team player at Rangers.

He’s been described as having a ‘very bright’ future, but has urged King to keep his head down.

“I think Leon is a player who is developing very well.” Van Bronckhorst said.

“He is only 18 and still has a lot to learn but he is one of the players who is open to coaching and putting in the energy to better himself.

“So, I think his future is very bright but he needs to continue playing well and training well.”

King admitted last week he was surprised to be involved against Liverpool at Anfield.

Being exposed to playing against some of the world’s best players at such a young age will only help King.

He’s got plenty of time to keep developing, and rushing into a move to the Premier League might not be the best idea.

King is clearly trusted by Van Bronckhorst, and if the injury Goldson picked up yesterday is serious, that’s only going to give King more opportunities.

Leeds have a habit of picking up exciting young players, and their under-21 side is going from strength to strength right now.

However, it’s no contest for playing regular senior football.

King should only consider a move elsewhere once he’s guaranteed first-team minutes.