John Souttar Rangers contract stalemate in focus as former Ibrox coach urges new regime to realise what they have
Billy Dodds reckons Rangers should be doing all they can to extend John Souttar 's contract.
The Scotland defender is in the final 10 months of his Ibrox deal and revealed last week talks over fresh terms have stalled.
Souttar has started all five of Russell Martin 's competitive games in charge this season taking him onto the 99 game mark in Govan and was handed the captain's armband in last week's 3-0 Champions League qualifying victory over Viktoria Plzen.
Dodds, who worked directly with the 28-year-old in his spell in Barry Ferguson 's interim management team and got an insider take on his contract situation, insists it's important the new regime realise the quality they already have in the building as they go about their squad overhaul.
He said: 'All I will say is that if you are looking to have a Scottish element as a starting point it would be beneficial to the club to get John's future sorted.
'It was absolutely brilliant for him to be made captain against Plzen because Tav was left out, it was a bit special for him.
'I think because he's Scottish, he gets underestimated. But he has got a bit of pace. He has got leadership, is good in the air, he talks well and is a brilliant passer of the ball.
'Sometimes people look at players in other leagues and say they're brilliant - but it is important to realise what is in the building.'
Souttar revealed last week how talks with club chiefs have gone quiet in recent months.
But he said: 'I love this place, I love this club. I love being here and that's really all I'll say on the matter.
'I've not really heard much recently, so all I can do is train hard every day. Every day I step on the pitch, I enjoy playing for the Rangers because I know how special the club is to play for.
'Whatever happens, will happen. But every time I pull on that jersey, I'm honoured, and that will never change.'
Dodds reckons Souttar's influence off the park is another reason why Rangers chiefs would want to keep him in the building.
He said: 'He's got a big part to play. He is a big quiet lad. He is unassuming. He is strong. He does not like any fuss. He is certainly a leader with his displays on the pitch.
'A great lad to work with. He sent me a nice message when we left.
'Again, unassuming, knows the job and what is required. These kind of boys know domestically things have got to get better and will help that situation.'
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