Rangers have high hopes for youngster James Maxwell, but the Leeds United target endured a difficult night with loan club Ayr United on Friday.
The Gers have loaned Maxwell out to Ayr this season, aiding his development with a spell in the Scottish Championship.
Maxwell, 20, joined Rangers after a spell with Falkirk and spent last season on loan Queen of the South.
Comfortable all the way up the left flank, Maxwell is a versatile performer and has been shining on loan at Ayr this season.
With five goals and four assists, Maxwell has been excelling for Ayr and attracting major interest as a result.
Leeds United are thought to be keen on signing Maxwell as they look to add a left-sided player for the development ranks.
The Daily Mail reported in January that Leeds fancy Maxwell, whose Rangers contract expires at the end of the season.
That situation certainly helps Leeds’ pursuit, but the exciting youngster suffered a difficult night on Friday.
Ayr hosted rivals Kilmarnock in a local derby but completely fell apart inside the first 20 minutes.
Rory McKenzie, Oli Shaw and Jack Sanders all scored for Killie inside the first 16 minutes, helping the visitors to a 3-1 win.
That would have been bad enough for Maxwell, but he was actually substituted after 20 minutes with manager Lee Bullen furious with his side’s display.
Maxwell was deployed as a left-sided midfielder but was very quickly hooked in a dismal Ayr performance.
With no sign of a new contract at Rangers, Leeds could be in the clear for Maxwell – but Friday’s display may just leave some wondering if he can make the step up.
Ayr take on Arbroath next weekend and Maxwell will be looking to bounce back quickly.
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