The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
‘Flying’ Flanagan thrilled to be back playing
Rangers defender Jon Flanagan insists he is ready to fight for his Ibrox future after receiving a pep talk from boss Steven Gerrard.
The former Liverpool full-back has entered the final six months of his Gers deal but would love to extend his stay in Glasgow.
The 27-year-old followed former Anfield team-mate Gerrard north of the border in the summer of 2018 and was a regular during his first campaign in Scotland, racking up 30 appearances.
However, Flanagan has found minutes harder to come by this term after being sidelined by a troublesome hernia problem.
Flanagan was back in the Light Blues’ starting line-up for Wednesday’s 1-0 win over St Mirren, as James Tavernier recovers from appendix surgery but it was just his eighth game so far.
Gerrard offered words of encouragement to his old Reds colleague as the clock ticks down on his contract.
He said: “Jon’s in the best shape I’ve seen him this season in terms of how he’s looking. He came over to Dubai absolutely flying.
“He trained right through the winter camp and he’s obviously trying to earn a contract here. So I’ve got no doubts that Jon will be waiting in the wings and desperate to play.”
That message has buoyed Flanagan, who is ready to do what it takes to secure an extension. He said: “It felt good to be back in the team – good to be back starting a game and great to be back on the pitch. It’s not been difficult to keep myself motivated.”