Windass backs versatile Crooks to make instant impact

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JOSH WINDASS has backed team-mate Matt Crooks to become an instant hit at Ibrox – no matter where boss Mark Warburton pitches him into his Rangers side.

 

The 22-year-old will make the move north of the border alongside Windass this summer after the pair agreed pre-contract switches earlier this year.

 

He has played in both defensive and midfield roles throughout his career and his versatility will be important for Warburton as he again looks to operate with a tight first team squad.

 

Crooks missed the final weeks of the campaign as Accrington Stanley saw their promotion dreams turn into an end-of-season nightmare and is on the road to recovery after going under the knife to cure an ankle problem.

 

Boss Warburton remains in the market for further reinforcements as he bids to bolster his squad for a shot at the Premiership title next term.

 

And Windass is confident Crooks can make a real impact in the middle of the park or at the back as he looks to make a name for himself at Ibrox.

 

He told SportTimes: “Croosky is a really big guy, he is 6ft 5”, but he is a really technical and he doesn’t play how he looks, if that makes sense.

 

“He is good on the ball, he can play centre-half or holding midfield really well. He is a good passer and a real athlete so I think he will be a really good addition to the squad.

 

“I have spoken about him with a few people and I am not sure where his best position is to be honest. I have seen him play really well at the back and play really well in midfield.

 

“I don’t think any of those positions would be a problem for him. You would have to ask him where he prefers but he can certainly do both roles easily.

 

“He would tell you what he prefers but I am sure he will do well in whatever role the manager sees for him.”

 

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/14544777.Josh_Windass_backs_versatile_Matt_Crooks_to_make_an_instant_impact_at_Rangers/?ref=mrb&lp=6