BREAKING NEWS: Oscar Cortes extremely poor after Rangers signing as exit-linked star needed at Ibrox

Derek Ferguson claims that Oscar Cortes, who has struggled for the Rangers during the preseason, will need some time to reach his peak performance.

The former Ibrox favorite called the returning winger’s performance in the 2-0 loss to Manchester United “extremely poor” and believes that both the Brazilian Danilo and the Colombian are still getting used to life after suffering major injuries in the previous campaign.

Cortes looked good on loan at Ibrox last year before injury, doing enough that the Gers decided to bring him back during the transfer window with an obligation to make the deal permanent next summer.

Philippe Clement’s side failed to win a game prior to the start of the campaign proper with only the 4-4 draw with Union Berlin to show for their travels, and with the manager scrambling to get senior signings in late in the window Ferguson believes the results emphasise the need for leadership in the squad from the likes of the exit-linked captain.

He spoke exclusively to Ibrox News and said: “We talk about Jack Butland, a leader of course. But you need the Connor Goldsons, guys like [James] Tavernier, or in the past the Steve Davises, the Barry Fergusons, you need these guys to get in amongst it and rally the troops.