FORMER Rangers star Barry Ferguson reckons Ryan Jack will have to prove his match fitness before he gets offered a new contract as he warns the Gers not to over look experience.
The 30-year-old has been in and out of the Light Blues squad this season due to injury and according to Ferguson he will need to prove to manager Michael Beale he has the resilience to remain fit if he wishes to remain at Ibrox.
The midfielder’s current contract runs out in the summer and he’s already admitted he’s yet to hear anything from the club about the possibility of an extension.
Jack found himself at Ibrox five-and-a-half years ago as a free transfer from Aberdeen and the Scotland international could find himself a free agent once again.
However, Ferguson would rather see Jack stay at Rangers as even though he admits the midfielder hasn’t been as regularly available this season due to injury he believes he still has a lot to offer the club.
Speaking on Go Radio, Ferguson said: “I don’t think talks have even started with Ryan Jack over a new contract.
“It was interesting to hear Michael Beale say that health and form are important to him.
“He’ll wait and see if Ryan Jack can prove he can play enough games. After that, I think he’ll get a new contract.
“The thing about experience is, you can’t buy it. People will say they’re too old and don’t have the legs any more. Listen, they’ve got the brain and the intelligence.
“When you lose experienced players, and if it happens to Rangers in the summer if Allan McGregor hangs his gloves up or Steven Davis doesn’t get another deal, they will be massive losses. Believe me when I say that.
“You need to always have an experienced group in that squad to help the other ones.”
Despite having an ongoing calf problem Jack has made 22 appearances for the Light Blues this season and even featured in Rangers fourth round Scottish Cup win at the weekend.
But Beale has already stated he’s still looking at strengthening his squad this January transfer window and has admitted his defensive back-line is one area he’d like to re-enforce.
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