ROSS McCrorie has paid tribute to Scotland Under-21 boss Scot Gemmill for being the first person to recognise his potential as a midfielder.
The 19-year-old broke into the Rangers first team as a centre-back earlier this season before impressing in a defensive midfield role in recent weeks.
McCrorie has started in the centre of the park for each of the Gers' last three league matches, helping Graeme Murty's side to back-to-back wins over Aberdeen before last weekend's victory against Ross County.
Interim boss Murty has been praised for his decision to change the teenager's role, but the Light Blues youngster explained to the Scottish FA that Gemmill was the first to try him out in midfield.
"Gemmill is one who I owe a lot to for that," he said.
"He was the one who really first gave me a go in midfield, playing in that deeper role. I’ve played at centre-back and right-back for him as well but he wasn’t afraid to try me in a different position.
"I feel like it’s working out well for me and I’ve carried that on with Rangers."
McCrorie praised the Under-21 boss for playing a big part in his development after spending several years under the tutelage of the former Nottingham Forest and Everton midfielder.
When asked how big an influence Gemmill has had on him, the 19-year-old replied: "A massive one. I’ve worked with Scot at every age level from Under-16 through to Under-21 and he’s always backed me.
"I wasn’t even a first pick for the Under-16s when he took over but I think I’ve been in every one of his squads since. He made me his captain at Under-17 and Under-19 level.
"He’s always believed in me and given me a lot of confidence. If I haven’t started in the odd game, people might think I’d be annoyed or feel left out but it’s never been like that."
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