International manager comments on reported Rangers transfer target

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Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy has sung the praises of reported Rangers target Luca Connell.

The Bolton youngster had been invited to the national team’s training camp in Portugal, but sustained a thigh injury and now won’t feature against Gibraltar.

His time with Ireland may have been cut short, but the holding midfielder certainly made a lasting impression on McCarthy.

He said (quoted by The Daily Record, 29/05 19:13pm): “A lovely personality about him. Real, pleasant, lovely young fella.

“He stood out in training, everybody was impressed with him. I just saw him saying goodbye to all the lads. Each and every one gave him a hug.

As quoted by The Irish Times, he added: “I did say at one of the press conferences that it depends on whether he rips it up, and pretty much, he did, with his personality and his performances in training. He impressed everybody; he was a breath of fresh air around the place.”

TBR’s view

The Daily Mail reported earlier this month that Rangers were interested in Connell, who only made his Bolton debut in January.

The 18-year-old impressed over his 10 appearances, but now faces an uncertain future with his contract about to expire and the club in administration.

Rangers would only have to pay a small compensation fee to get him.

Perhaps the words of McCarthy suggest Rangers should be trying to get Connell in ahead of other interested parties Norwich City, Southampton and Preston.

It sounds very much like Connell has a great character, which is sure to appeal along with his exciting potential.