Holt relishes fight for first team spot
JASON HOLT is ready to go back to school at Rangers if it helps his career.
The 23-year-old finds himself involved in an eight-man battle for a place in the Light Blues’ midfield this season.
He was a stalwart of the team that raced to the Championship title during Mark Warburton’s first term as manager.
But the arrival of experienced campaigners Joey Barton and Niko Kranjcar means he now faces a real fight to claim a regular starting spot.
He said: “It is a great for me to have the calibre of player like Kranjcar and Barton here.
“I can only learn things from them. They have played at a really high level in the past.
“They’re only going to help you and are always looking to encourage. Competition is really healthy for the squad.”
Holt says he has already seen an increase in quality at Rangers as they prepare for life back in the top flight.
He went on: “The standard in training was really good last season. This season we have taken it up a notch.
“Everyone will be on their toes, working hard and fighting for a jersey in the team.
“Joey has been great. He adds a lot of quality to the side, both on and off the park.
“Kranjcar is laid-back but in a good sense. He’s relaxed but when the action starts he shows 100% commitment.”
While Warburton admits there is no sentiment when it comes to picking the Rangers team, he claims Holt should consider himself an equal of Kranjcar.
He said: “Niko’s ability is exceptional but look at Jason and his energy levels, his desire to get round the pitch and cover 14km. He also has technical strength and he’s not inferior to the new signings at all.
“All the younger boys can learn from the experienced players but they should see themselves as equals – there is no inferiority complex.
“If the competition is strong, we will be in a good place.”