Ibrox manager Warburton says McKay is set for top

MARK WARBURTON last night stressed he wants Barrie McKay to remain at Rangers – but predicted the winger is capable of playing at the very highest level in the future.

McKay, the Scotland internationalist whose current contract has 18 months left to run, revealed this week that he hadn’t been offered an extension by the Ibrox club.

Warburton, whose side take on top-flight rivals Motherwell in the fourth round of the William Hill Scottish Cup at home tomorrow, stated that talks about the player’s situation were ongoing.

The Englishman is keen for the winger, who has attracted interest from Premier League and Championship clubs down south, to commit himself to Rangers.

“The dialogue goes on,” he said. “My job is to say what I think about the players. From our point of view, he is an outstanding young talent, undoubtedly an outstanding young talent.

“We value Barrie very highly. He is a top young talent and I hope very much he has a bright future here at Rangers. I’m delighted with his progress over the last 18 months.

“He showed against Celtic recently and again against RB Leipzig last Sunday that he can be outstanding against top teams. So it is quite natural that he is one of many names who will be looked at.

“I think Barrie can go as far in this game as he wants to go. He’s now showing you glimpses of his ability. I think Barrie McKay can go to the highest level.”

Warburton dismissed suggestions that Michael O’Halloran, who was signed from St Johnstone for £500,000 last January, could move to Hearts, who are vying with Rangers for a Europa League place, on loan this month.

But he conceded that he couldn’t guarantee every member of his squad would remain at Ibrox.

“I’m comfortable all my players will be here, but that could change tomorrow,” he said. “That’s how the window works. If clubs come in and it’s good business for our club, then we will. No player is safe from that.”