James Tavernier was warned to look over his shoulder in regard to the development Adam Devine by Rangers boss Michael Beale.
It would seem that was pretty sound advice from the Ibrox manager.
Devine, 19, has admitted that he’s aiming to oust the captain from Rangers’ starting line-up.
It may not happen any time soon, but the young defender has openly revealed that’s his ultimate aim.
Devine came into the fold for first team duties for Beale’s debut in the Ibrox dugout against Hibs. The teenager was trusted to play left-back in the absence of Borna Barisic – who was still on World Cup duty with Croatia – and the injured Ridvan Yilmaz.
While the youngster is traditionally a right-back, he equipped himself well, putting in a solid display both defensively and perhaps more importantly, going forwards as well.
He kept his place for the trip to Aberdeen, where he played his part in a pulsating last-gasp victory at Pittodrie. Devine then made it three starts in-a-row as he featured in Dingwall for Rangers’ game against Ross County.
Barisic has come back into the side since, taking his place at left-back versus Motherwell and Celtic.
Devine would happily go back to filling that position, insisting he’d play anywhere for the team, though he admits the long-term aim is to become the club’s first choice right-back.
Asked about Beale’s comments where he said that Devine would be up to 25 per cent better on his more natural side, he made the admission.
“It fills you with confidence. I just need to keep my head down,” Devine said speaking to promote the new 2022/23 SPFL Match Attax collection.
“Tav’s in the team but ultimately that is my aim - to try and get him out of the team. That’s my drive in training every day.
“I want to be playing. I want to be starting games. But he’s a big role model for me. He’s been helping me.
“The last month has been a bit hectic. The manager gave me my chance against Leverkusen and I played not bad. I was picked for the next three games. I have loved every minute of it.”
Adam Devine helped launch the new 2022/23 SPFL Match Attax Collection, on sale now in Scottish retailers and via Topps.com.
