Johnny Russell has tipped Rangers target Jose Cifuentes to be a sensation at Ibrox.
And the former Scotland star believes that the Ecuadorian midfielder could end up in England’s Premier League if he succeeds in Glasgow. Russell played against Cifuentes in the MLS on Wednesday night when his side, Sporting KC, drew 1-1 with Los Angeles FC. The former Dundee United striker – who scored his side’s goal in the game – has been hugely impressed by Cifuentes who is being tracked by Gers boss Michael Beale.
Russell is convinced the 24-year-old would be a terrific signing for the Ibrox club who could end up making a profit on him. He told MailSport: “I really like Cifuentes. I’ve played against him a few times now, including the other night. He’s a very good player and I think that he’s the right fit for Rangers and Scottish football.
“If Rangers get him, it would be a bit of a coup for them. He’s one of these boys who – if it was your plan – could come in and do a job for you but then you could probably shift him on as well. Rangers could sell him on again if he does well there. And Cifuentes might see a move to Scotland as a stepping stone to the English Premier League.”
Russell believes Cifuentes could be deployed in a number of roles by Beale at Ibrox. As well as being a sitting midfielder, Cifuentes is also capable of chipping in with goals. Russell, 33, said: “He’s got a bit about him. I certainly don’t think he’d struggle in terms of physicality because he’s a strong boy.
“He’s played in different midfield positions for LAFC. On Wednesday, he played as a No.8. Their usual No.6, Ilie Sanchez, used to play for us. When he’s fit, he plays.
“Cifuentes fills in around that area and they’ve got a top midfield. But he holds his own in that team and you have to be a good player to do that. And he pops up with goals as well. He’s always there or thereabouts on the scoresheet when you check the results.”
Russell was only made aware of Rangers’ interest in Cifuentes when he started getting texts from pals back home in Scotland. Russell, who is a Celtic fan, said: “I didn’t know about it until some of my mates messaged me after we played them. If I’d have known about it, I might have tried to sabotage it!”
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