Kevin Phillips, the Sunderland legend, has tipped new Rangers midfielder Dan Neil to potentially claim the Ibrox captaincy, insisting the 24-year-old will command immediate respect in the dressing room. Neil joined Rangers this summer after captaining Sunderland to Premier League promotion, only to lose his starting spot and the armband following the £13million arrival of Granit Xhaka.
Neil's leadership credentials
Phillips, speaking exclusively to Record Sport, highlighted Neil's experience at a big club and in high-pressure games like the North East Derby. He said: "I think he'll walk into that dressing room and hold his own for sure. He's got experience. He's been at a big football club. He's played in some big games."
With new Rangers boss Derek McInnes weighing up candidates to replace departed captain James Tavernier, Phillips believes Neil should be a leading contender. "I think all players respect each other and he'll certainly get that. And I think what they'll also respect is that they're getting a good player," Phillips added.
Phillips on Neil's quality
Phillips, who played alongside Jack Butland at Birmingham, also praised Neil's technical ability. "If I was a player in that dressing room and you signed Dan, you know, you're getting an exciting player. Technically very, very good. Box-to-box player, can score goals. So I think from Rangers' point of view and the players' point of view, when a player like that walks through the door, yes, you have to give him the respect because he's played in the Premier League, arguably the best league in the world."
Butland backed to shine at Hull
Meanwhile, Phillips has backed Jack Butland to prove his Ibrox critics wrong after the 33-year-old goalkeeper moved to Hull City, swapping places with new Rangers No1 Ivor Pandur. McInnes overhauled the goalkeeping department after Butland's fluctuating form while on loan at Hearts last season.
Phillips, who played with Butland at Birmingham, said: "Thirty-three is nothing nowadays. For a goalkeeper, yes, they put a lot of strain on their body, but 33 years of age is nothing. Jack looks after himself. I know him. I played with him at Birmingham. I think they've paid around £3million for him. I think it could be a massive bargain."
Phillips added: "He played every minute for Rangers last year. So that's going to help him. He's fit. I think it could be a really, really good signing for Hull. He's got that experience, and that's what you need when you're trying to stay in the Premier League. For me, it’s a good signing."
