Alan Hutton has claimed that Rangers will need to offer Ross Stewart ample playing time if they want to sign the forward this summer.

The Scot played an integral role in helping Sunderland secure promotion back to the Championship this season.

His 24 goals helped power Alex Neil’s side to a 5th place finish which guaranteed the club a play-off place.

Victories over Sheffield Wednesday and Wycombe Wanderers earned the Black Cats a place back in the second division for next season.

But speculation has seen Stewart linked with a move to the Scottish giant.

However, the former defender believes that if Rangers cannot guarantee the 25-year old consistent game time then he will remain at the Stadium of Light beyond the transfer window.

“He’s Scottish, he knows what it’s all about. He can understand what it is to play for Rangers and the pressure that comes with that,” said Hutton, via Football Insider.

“Being down south in League One, you have to be robust. You have to be able to deal with everything that goes along with that, it’s a tough league.

“He’s scored some big goals, in the semi-final of the play-offs, he scored in the play-off final to help Sunderland get back to the Championship. He is a number nine for me.

“He’s a big boy, he can hold the ball up and he knows where the goal is, he’s proven he can score goals. I think he would be a good addition depending on the fee and if Morelos stays or goes.

“He’s going to want to play football because the Championship is a good level. You’re not going to come to Rangers just to sit on the bench.”

 

 

Stewart has been with Sunderland since signing from Ross County in January 2021.

The striker was the club’s top scorer this season and has settled in well with the team.

Neil will now be preparing for life in the Championship, with the hope being that the Scot will remain with the club in order to boost their chances in the league.

The Verdict

If Rangers can’t guarantee proper playing time for Stewart then it is highly unlikely that he will make the switch this summer.

Everything is on the up at Sunderland now that the club is back in the second tier.

Stewart is also the team’s most important player arguably, so leaving that behind would be a huge decision.

Even if the club got a sizable fee for the player, him remaining would likely be the best outcome possible for the Black Cats.