Rangers were linked with the 30-year-old before his summer move – but could he still end up at Ibrox?
It’s coming up six months since Rangers were linked with what would have been a controversial move for Niall McGinn, as reported by the Scottish Sun.
Instead the former Celtic and Aberdeen winger headed to east, signing for South Korean side Gwangju.
But after comments made by McGinn’s manager Kim Hak-bum via the Scottish Sun on Tuesday, could Rangers renew their interest this winter?
HITC takes a look.
What’s he said?
That despite being “one of the best I have seen in terms of technique”, “great to coach” and “very impressive in training”, McGinn has not yet “adapted to the rough tactics and pace of the K-League.”
He added: “Hopefully, he will adapt, but he knows he must do more to get a start with us at Gwangju,” prompting the Scottish Sun to speculate that the Northern Irishman may be eyeing a return to the UK.
Do Rangers still need him?
Though the Gers signed a trio of wide men – Daniel Candeias, Aaron Nemane and Dalcio – since the McGinn links surfaced, the latter pair have appeared only fleetingly so far, while Hearts’ Jamie Walker is thought to remain a target, having turned down a new deal at Tynecastle. Therefore, the answer is probably yes.
So McGinn end up at Ibrox?
It’s perhaps unlikely. The extent of Rangers’ interest remains to be seen, having only been reported the once by the Scottish Sun, while Kim’s comments do seem to have been sensationalised a little. That being said, it’s possible the Gers could turn their attention away from Walker if Hearts are determined to keep him until the end of his contract next summer. And with 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions last season, McGinn, if available, might not be a bad should.
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