A rising Rangers player who is “at the top of the pile” is given exactly what he wants to hear from Philippe Clement.

A rising Rangers player who is “at the top of the pile” is given exactly what he wants to hear from Philippe Clement.

For Robbie Fraser, this week of returning to school is bringing back memories of his first year in school. Fourteen years have passed since the young Rangers player showed up at Ibrox to start his football career. At the age of seven, the Glasgow boy signed up with his childhood heroes, barely out of his underwear. Since then, there has been a rigorous examination, with Fraser having to contend with numerous aspirants vying for his position as they advanced through the Govan grades at every turn.

Fraser has outlasted them all and now 21, he’s finally graduated into Philippe Clement’s squad. But the Scotland Under-21 defender knows this is when the hard work really begins as he looks to pass his first-team test. He said: “Fourteen years is a crazy amount of time. I was seven years old when I first joined the club. It’s been a long time and I’ve been through everything at the club.

“In fact, I still recall my first day at the club.” I used to be a shy, anxious boy when I first arrived. Although I didn’t particularly enjoy being around the players, I think I’ve finally come out of my shell. I want to go forward from here now. “The club started where I grew up on my street, and it runs through me, my family, and everyone I know.” Being on the field and having my family support me from the stands makes it even more special because I had a season ticket when I was younger. So to speak, I’m at the top of the pile, and perhaps I can stay here. Few people are able to remove that journey.

“He’s not interested in me changing. He can see the quality in my pitch, which is encouraging to hear, so maintain the same mindset and work ethic. He hasn’t really stated I’ll play X number of games, but he has advised me to keep doing what I’m doing and opportunities will present themselves, like they did against St Johnstone on Saturday night. “I just have to have patience,” I am aware that certain elite players are in close proximity to me. Although it’s understandable that I might not receive all the minutes I want, I work in a fantastic place and I only see my skills improving. Last Saturday, the Gers began their League Cup defense with a commanding victory over Craig Levein’s squad.

Fraser continues, saying, “We’re really happy to be through.” They will now host Dundee in the last eight next month. That was the most crucial element. That was the aim before to the match on Saturday. Naturally, we had hoped for a more seamless process, but we’ve completed our task, advanced to the next phase, and will monitor our progress.

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