FORMER Rangers captain Lee McCulloch believes John Lundstram has flourished at the Ibrox club in the past three years because he embraces the demands of their supporters fully.
And the ex-Scotland internationalist has expressed hope the Glasgow giants can persuade the English midfielder to sign a new contract so they can build on the progress they have made under Philippe Clement next season.
Lundstram has been one of Clement’s most consistent performers at home and abroad in the 2023/24 campaign – but his current deal runs out in the summer and he has not reached agreement on an extension.
READ MORE: Ex-Rangers captain sees shades of Walter Smith in Philippe Clement
Speaking at Murrayfield yesterday as he promoted the friendly between Rangers and Manchester United there in July, McCulloch admitted he would like the former Sheffield United player to remain in Govan.
“For me, Jack Butland in goal has been tremendous,” he said. “But I think John’s been arguably Rangers’ best outfield player.
“He’s got everything. I am not sure he would be happy to be compared to me, but he can also play in a couple of different positions. He even played centre half a few times last season.”
READ MORE: Scotland assistant admits ex-Rangers striker has been watched
McCulloch added: “But he gets what the club is all about, which is the biggest thing for me. He loves playing for Rangers. I’ve spoken to him a few times and he’s a real good, grounded boy.
“It makes a massive difference. John’s got that mentality though where he loves to win, hates to get beat and performs consistently week in, week out.
“He’s been an easy target at times when he’s actually been playing okay. But when he’s on his game he’s one of the best. Personally, I’d love to see him stay, but I don’t know if that will happen.
“His contract is up at the end of the season. But I think he’s been good enough to say you should try to keep a hold of him. That’s only my opinion, though, that’s down to the powers that be.
“But he gets the demands of the fans so for me it would be good to keep hold of him.”
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