GARY MCALLISTER is pleased patience has proven a virtue for Ianis Hagi after two goals in his last two outings.

The Romanian found the target in the win over St Johnstone last midweek as he rounded off a 3-0 victory folllowing strikes from Kemar Roofe and Glen Kamara.

And he would net the decisive effort against Hibernian at Ibrox as Steven Gerrard's side maintained their unbeaten Premiership run and 16 point lead over Celtic in the title race.

Hagi has had to bide his time in certain moments this season as Gerrard has made full use of the array of attacking options that he has at his disposal.

But assistant boss McAllister never doubted that the 22-year-old would come to the fore once again as he looks to continue his fine form in the Premiership clash away to St Mirren this afternoon.

McAllister said: “Ianis has had to be very patient. The team has been on a fantastic run and it’s been difficult for the manager to change things.

“When you do get the chance, you have to show what you can do. That’s what Ianis has done. He has been excellent in the games he has come into recently.

“He’s a real goal threat. Assists and goals - that’s why he was brought here. Against teams with a packed defence, we are looking at guys like Ianis to unlock the door.

“His reaction has been superb. He’s very diligent in his work in training. He wants to play and that has shown in his recent performances."