Barrie McKay would not be allowed to leave Rangers on the cheap, says Mark Warburton
Tuesday 24 January 2017 19:04, UK
Mark Warburton wants Barrie McKay to stay at Rangers and insists the winger would not be allowed to leave Ibrox on the cheap.
Bundesliga title challengers RB Leipzig are reported to be considering an offer for the 22-year-old, while English Premier League clubs have also been linked with a move following a string of impressive performances.
Warburton claims players in Scotland are undervalued but says he has no intention of letting any of his own be sold for a knockdown price, and insists they will fight to keep McKay, who has 18 months left on his contract.
"You look at the prices being paid and you can see why Scottish players represent value but our job is to keep our best players and if any player leaves here they will leave here on Rangers' terms," he told Rangers TV.
"I think there is a lack of appreciation for the Scottish market. I think there is an unnecessary derogatory stance or view sometimes of the Scottish game.
"You can see why in certain aspects but there are a lot of very talented players up here and for the Scottish national team and you want the players exposed to the highest level possible.
"We hope very much that we keep our best talent; we want them here playing for Rangers."
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Warburton, whose side travel to Motherwell on Saturday, live on Sky Sports 1HD, is not surprised about the speculation surrounding McKay but believes he is fully committed to Rangers.
"He is a very talented young player with loads of development still left in him so it is a delight to watch Barrie grow and thrive," he said.
"Barrie has just turned 22 but David [Weir] and I have no doubt that he has a big career in the game. You hope very much it is here but with football you can't control that.
"There are no fears Barrie's head has been turned, you saw at the weekend the level of his performance, his dynamism, his desire and his commitment to the club is undoubted.
"I have no problems about Barrie McKay whatsoever; I want him to keep on working hard every day in training and watch him continue to develop in the weeks ahead."
