I want to play every game ... and I’ll learn from icons Defoe and Stevie G

When Ross McCrorie starts for Rangers they usually win.

Last Sunday’s Old Firm defeat at Celtic Park was the first game Steven Gerrard’s side have lost this season with the 21-year-old in their line-up.

But the Scotland Under-21 skipper won’t be content at Ibrox until he’s playing in EVERY game for Gers.

McCrorie has started 10 times in the Premiership but has struggled to nail down a regular slot in an ultracompetitive midfield.

Gerrard was quoted as saying the youngster is suited to “certain games” which is credit to McCrorie’s physical presence, particularly away from home.

But the kid says the challenge for him is to convince his manager that he can be pitched in against anyone. McCrorie said: “My aim is to be playing every week instead of being in and out.

“I need to take responsibility and show the gaffer and staff I’m more than capable.

“I heard the manager’s comments and it’s good to know that I’m going to be involved here but I want to play in every game.

“It’s a challenge to prove I’m worth a place in his team. A few other boys are in the same situation – it shows the quality in our squad.

“But eventually the aim for me has to be to play every week.

“I think I’ve improved massively since the start of the season.

“I’m a more rounded player but there are still bits to work on. It’s about me taking responsibility so that I am trusted more to play from the start.” McCrorie (below) is trying to learn from the experienced pros in Rangers’ squad – especially former England striker Jermain Defoe. He still can’t believe he’s a team-mate of Defoe’s and playing under Gerrard – two England icons he grew up watching. But while they are at Ibrox, along with the likes of Gareth McAuley as well, he’s eager to improve. McCrorie said: “You can see the quality Jermain brings to the team. He’s deadly in front of goal and he’s been good off the pitch too.

“He’s a top professional, even in the way that he carries himself around the training ground.

“He’s always doing something, whether it be recovery or whatever, just to keep his body in top condition.

“That’s the wee things you learn from. He talks to everybody and I try to lean on all the senior pros.

“Gareth also has a wealth of experience, so it’s great when they share their thoughts with the young players.

“It’s surreal playing with Jermain and working under the gaffer because I grew up watching them on Match of the Day playing in all the big games. But it’s great they’re here. There’s no-one better I could be learning from.”