The 'biggest thing' affecting a potential new deal for Ryan Jack at Rangers comes down to the midfielder staying fully fit.
That is the view of former Ibrox defender Alan Hutton who insists the veteran is the type of player Michael Beale wants to have in his midfield but that his recent run of bad injuries may play a part in any new contracts. Jack's deal at Ibrox, alongside fellow long-term stars Scott Arfield and Steven Davis, are up in the summer with no fresh terms penned since Beale's arrival.
The Englishman admitted himself he wanted Jack as part of his squad going forward but Hutton believes the fact the he missed some of the season with a calf problem, add to his unknown condition ahead of Sunday's massive Viaplay Cup final with Celtic, could be a factor in how long his stay at Ibrox would be extended.
He told Football Insider: “I think if you look at the situation at the moment, there are a lot of contracts up in the air and players coming towards the end.
“I think he is someone that still has a lot to offer. He is a different type, he is a different profile to some of the players that are already there, the likes of Raskin, Cantwell, [Malik] Tillman, all forward thinking players.
“You need that industrious guy that is going to work hard and win the ball back. The biggest thing that has been over him is can he stay fit for the whole season. I think when he is fit and firing he is a very important part of the team.“
Beale said last year: "In playing Ryan in the first game and him scoring against Hibs, he is doing everything he can. But obviously I showed what I think of Ryan by selecting him in my first game.
“In the last few months, for different reasons, Ryan has not always been available so at the moment he is just focusing on enjoying his football and being available. He was asked a question and he answered it honestly and I will as well. At this moment in time Ryan Jack is in the best eleven players at Rangers. Why wouldn’t you want to keep Ryan Jack?”
READ NEXT:
Alfredo Morelos handed 'reliable' Rangers tag as Ally McCoist hails Michael Beale improvement factor
Fashion Sakala calls Celtic 'the other mob' as Rangers star aims dig ahead of cup final
Rangers vs Celtic on TV: Channel, kick-off time and live stream details for Viaplay Cup Final
Rangers' title chances rated by Andy Walker as he delivers Celtic 'almighty collapse' verdict
The Jota Celtic 'never stop' mantra clue as Ange Postecoglou influence laid bare by DJ's house visit
