Aiden McGeady explains why ‘dynamic’ Minsu Kim can keep Rangers flying this season

Aiden McGeady has been impressed by Minsu Kim since the Rangers youngster arrived at Ibrox, and believes the South Korean can play an important role for Derek McInnes this season.

Kim joined Rangers from Girona during the summer in a deal worth around £8.5million, with McInnes making the 20-year-old a priority as he looked to add another creative option to his attack.

The Rangers boss ultimately got his wish, with Kim arriving alongside Badredine Bouanani, who joined on loan.

It is Kim, though, who has made the quickest impression.

The winger has started both of Rangers’ recent Old Firm victories and was again a threat during Sunday’s 1-0 triumph over Celtic at Parkhead.

Although Kim did not get his name on the scoresheet or register an assist, his effort ultimately played a part in the winning goal, with Ryan Naderi converting after the initial shot had caused problems for Celtic.

McGeady believes those moments highlight exactly what Kim can bring to the Rangers attack.

Speaking on Open Goal, the former Celtic winger pointed to the youngster’s movement, energy and decision-making as reasons for optimism around Rangers.

“I think Rangers will be alright because I see a difference with Minsu and Kevin Kelsy, more energy. Minsu is dynamic, gets on the ball, plays nice passes,” McGeady said.

He also highlighted one particular attacking sequence involving Kim, Kelsy and the Celtic defence.

“See when he took the ball for the one that got cleared off the line, and Kelsy is at the back post?

“It’s even just the thought of knowing the overlap is coming, and the wee slip ball. Just clever, intelligent players, so that’s why I think they’ll be alright.”

Kim’s numbers from last season suggest there is plenty more to come.

The 20-year-old contributed 10 goals and assists combined during his loan spell with Andorra FC, and Rangers will be hoping his first goal for the club is not too far away.

McInnes was clearly convinced there was significant potential in Kim when he pushed for the deal before the transfer window closed.

The Rangers manager wanted more competition and variety in his forward options, and saw Kim as a player capable of offering something different.

Speaking after the transfer was completed, McInnes praised the youngster’s technical ability and energy while explaining why he was viewed as an important addition.

“We are delighted to welcome Minsu to Rangers.

“Strengthening our options in the forward areas has been a real target and focus for us throughout this window, and we believe he will add another exciting dimension to the squad.

“Min-Su is a talented young player with excellent technical ability, energy and a real desire to develop, and we are looking forward to working with him.”

That extra dimension has already begun to show.

Kim provides Rangers with a different attacking outlet, particularly when he is able to isolate defenders and combine with teammates around the box.

With Kevin Kelsy, Bouanani and the other attacking options also settling into McInnes’ system, Rangers will hope the group can develop further as the campaign progresses.

For now, McGeady’s assessment is another indication of why there is growing excitement around Kim at Ibrox.

He may still be waiting for his first Rangers goal, but his performances against Celtic have already shown why McInnes was so keen to bring him to the club.