Former Rangers player Derek Ferguson says he expects Borna Barisic to leave the club on a free transfer this summer.
The Croatian international has been in Glasgow for almost six years but his contract is set to expire at the end of the season. Asked by Ibrox News whether he would be disappointed to see the fullback go, Ferguson replied:
“Not gutted, I think it’s the perfect time for him to make the exit. I think he’s been a good servant to the club, but in saying that I think he’s let himself down at times, in some of the big games, not maybe handled the pressure if you want to call it that.”
“You need a strong mentality, if you speak to some of the other guys, whether you’re Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Hibs, you need a strong mentality and I think at times the pressure seems to have got to Barisic in the big games.”
“But overall in the five or six years he’s been here, terrific deliverer of crossed balls, you couldn’t fault him [for that], but just defensively he’s been found wanting.”
“Just sometimes, I’m not saying all the time, but just at times in the big games he’s let himself down for me. I’m talking a few Celtic games that he’s not handled it very well.”
The writing has been on the wall for a while
Although the 31-year-old has made 29 appearances in all competitions for the Gers this season, manager Philippe Clement has used him more sparingly since being appointed back in October.
The Belgian has only started Barisic in 7 league fixtures, with Ridvan Yilmaz now being favoured more often at left-back.
Where could Barisic go?
Over the past week, reports in the Turkish media have claimed that the defender and his representatives have held talks with Super Lig side Trabzonspor.
As Barisic is in the final six months of his contract, there are no restrictions on him discussing a potential move with prospective teams.