Rangers are reportedly keen on Hearts wonderkid Aaron Hickey, according to The Scottish Sun.
Ross Wilson – who has just left Southampton to become Rangers’ new Sporting Director – has recommended moving for Hickey. He thinks the young left-back will cost around £2m.
Rangers scouts could now take an interest in the teenager. And, ironically, the first game since those links emerged will be between Rangers and Hearts. This is the perfect opportunity for Rangers scouts to sniff around.
Hickey’s audition
This game could act as an audition for Hickey. The 17-year-old is likely to start at left-back for Hearts as they aim to dent Rangers’ title hopes. An impressive performance could frustrate Rangers in the short-term but excite them in the long-term.
Hickey will be tasked with nullifying the threat of Rangers’ talented attackers. Alongside his other defenders, he has to keep Jermain Defoe, Alfredo Morelos, Sheyi Ojo, Scott Arfield and others quiet.
Whoever Hickey is marking, it will not be an easy ride. But it will be a telling test of his ability to cope with the very best in the division. This could convince Rangers one way or the other before January.
Hickey to replace Barisic?
Hickey could be Rangers’ new left-back for the long-term future. The Scotland youth international already has 12 games under his belt this season and he is showing his ability to cope with senior football already.
Borna Barisic will be wary of Hickey taking his place. This could prompt the Croatian defender to raise his game and keep his left-back spot. But it will be all eyes on Hickey this weekend.