Ryan’s not a Port in this storm
Ross defends his star after bust-up with Gers skipper
JACK ROSS labelled Rangers’ Public Enemy No.1 Ryan Porteous “brilliant” and insisted he didn’t even deserve to be booked for his clash with Alfredo Morelos.
The Hibs centre-back found himself slap bang in the middle of a post-match storm after Sunday’s explosive draw with Steven Gerrard’s side.
Porteous was booked for an off-the-ball block on Morelos before accusing James Tavernier of being a “bad loser” after the Ibrox skipper blanked him at full-time.
Morelos also refused to shake hands with the 21-yearold Easter Road star at the end of a feisty encounter.
Gerrard insisted Porteous’ accusation was “cheap” given his red card in December for a lunge on Borna Barisic when Hibs were 3-0 behind.
But Ross believes all the talk surrounding the Scotland Under- 21, who earned a maiden full call-up for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Cyprus and Kazakhstan last November, should instead focus on how far he can go.
The Hibs boss said: “He was brilliant again and that’s how he’s played all season. His level of consistency has been en terrific, he defended brilliantly tly and he showed composure re at times.
“He was cautioned in the e game, which is debatable, e, and certainly nothing g worthy of comment, , because it was nothing.
“The focus should be accentuating the positives he’s shown this season and nd he’s shown lots of them. And if he continues to do that over a prolonged period he’ll fulfil all his ambitions in the game.
“I’m delighted with him and pleased for him.”
Ross also hailed stalwart Lewis Stevenson, 32, who on
Monday celebrated the 15th anniversary of his club debut.
The dependable defender had a half-hour against Gers and Ross added on Hibs TV: “Lewis was brilliant when he came on. He showed why he’s been such an asset to Hibs for so many years.”