JORDAN JONES saw his Rangers career suffer a significant setback against Celtic as his dream move was almost over as quickly as it started.
But Andy Little believes another Old Firm outing could be the springboard for his campaign as he looks to play his part at Parkhead on Saturday.
The winger spent several weeks out of action after the reckless challenge on Mortiz Bauer that saw him sent-off at Ibrox last term.
Jones never really recovered in the remainder of the campaign but he made the most of his chance against Motherwell last month as he came in from the cold to impress at Fir Park.
And Little knows the Northern Irish international will be desperate to catch the eye of boss Steven Gerrard and prove his worth at Ibrox.
Little said: “I think every credit to him, he has kept going when it is very difficult at times.
“I had that experience myself when I was down at Preston and I was completely out of the picture. You have to make a decision whether to leave or stay and fight and there is no doubt that Jordan has stayed and fought for his position.
“A couple of injuries to Aribo and Barker, who was the player who was making the impression, allowed him to come in and he was outstanding at Motherwell.
“Like every winger, it is about getting that consistency of performance and if he can get a start on Saturday that would be a real opportunity for him.
“There is no better way to get into the hearts of Rangers fans than scoring in an Old Firm game and putting in a performance.
“It is a brilliant opportunity for him but he has still got to show a little bit more if he wants a start for the rest of the season because there are a lot of players who have performed and scored and are making an impression. Jordan has still got a way to go if he wants to have a jersey for the remainder of the season.”
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