Rangers boss Michael Beale says Antonio Colak still has a future at Ibrox.
The Croatian striker has barely featured since he was appointed gaffer in November. Colak started the campaign on fire, scoring seven goals in his first nine games - then finishing on 17 in 38. But niggling injuries curtailed his progress under Beale which meant Alfredo Morelos was restored as Gers’ first-choice front-man. And recent reports suggested Colak could be on his way out of the club this summer, with major changes afoot at Ibrox.
However, Beale is adamant the 29-year-old is part of his plans for next term. He’s warned the former PAOK hit-man, who was signed for £2 million a year ago, that he faces stiff competition for a starting slot. But the manager is refusing to write him off. Beale said: “For Antonio’s first season at Rangers, in terms of starts, his goal return is fantastic.
“But the reality is, since November he’s had an on-off time with injuries. When I came in he was injured. Then he came back, played a few games and scored two against Hibs, where he was fantastic.
“He played up front with Fashion Sakala and that night was as good as we have played under me. I have no issue with Antonio’s style. He just hasn’t had an opportunity to get a run of games.
“Moving forward, there will be competition coming into the squad and Tony will fight it out with those guys. His goalscoring record gives me optimism.
“If he has a good pre-season and comes out of it, then I will get the Antonio Colak we had in August and September. Does he have a future here? Yeah. But he will have to take on the challenge like everyone else.
“I want to drive competition in the squad and he won’t shy away from it. He backs himself. If someone doesn’t want competition, they aren’t at the right club.”
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