Attacking midfielder John Fleck has played down suggestions that he is Rangers' answer to Wayne Rooney.
Scottish wonderkid not fond of England striker comparison
Attacking midfielder John Fleck has played down suggestions that he is Rangers' answer to Wayne Rooney.
Fleck has been the subject of fierce expectation since he made his competitive debut as a 16-year-old in January 2008, making him the youngest player to pull on the light blue jersey since Derek Ferguson back in 1983.
Since the Gers starlet burst on to the scene, a national newspaper placed Fleck - the nephew of former Rangers star Robert - seventh in their Top 50 Rising Stars of European football feature.
That led to comparisons with a certain Manchester United and England player, but the 18-year-old admits the link has contributed too much hype surrounding his career as he bids to establish himself in Walter Smith's side.
Expectation
"People definitely expected too much of me," said Fleck, as he promoted the Scottish champions' new home kit at Ibrox.
"I'm still a young boy and I think people expected me just to come out and be like Wayne Rooney every week but that's not going to happen.
"He's a world-class player and it takes time for a young boy to come through. I'm willing to be patient but hopefully I'll get my chance.
"I've been involved for the last couple of years now, coming off the bench and things like that, so hopefully this will be the season for me."
He added: "I wouldn't say it's a make or break season. I'm still young and hopefully I can just play as much as possible.
"I'm not saying I'm going to play every week or anything but if I'm doing well at training, the manager will make his choices.
"If I play, then great. If I don't, I just need to keep working hard."
Wilson
Fleck signed a new three-year-deal in March following suggestions he wanted to quit Rangers and seek a lucrative move south of the border.
And the teenager now hopes fellow youngster Danny Wilson - a target for Liverpool - will follow suit and pledge his future to Rangers.
"Hopefully he will stay," said Fleck of the teenage centre-half. "He is still a young boy and I'm sure he will do well for us if he does stay.
"It's up to him, whether he wants to go or not is his choice.
"I've not spoken to him about it but I'm sure he has probably spoken to people like Davie Weir to see what he thinks.
"The gaffer can make him a better player and I'm sure he would give him games as he is a great player.
"I'm just hoping he stays because I think he has a big future here. I think he would play every week next season if he did stay."
