BORNA BARISIC reckons Calvin Bassey's thirst for knowledge will ensure he fulfils his potential for Rangers in the coming years.

The 22-year-old helped the champions lift the Premiership title during his first term in Scottish football after making the move from Leicester City.

And his second season has seen him establish himself as a key part of Giovanni van Bronckhorst's squad at home and abroad.

Bassey has operated at left-back and centre-back throughout the campaign and has been an impressive performer as Rangers have reached the Europa League final and Scottish Cup final.

The Nigerian internationalist seems destined for a bright future in the game and Barisic is impressed with the way his young protege handles himself on and off the park.

Barisic said: "Absolutely. He’s my boy! He’s a good guy and a very good player.

"I think he has improved this season very well and he can play both at left-back or centre-back.

"But we know his qualities. He’s very strong and it is very tough to play against him.

"I’m pleased that he has improved this much and I think he has a very bright future.

"He has the ability but even more important is that he is very calm and down to earth.

"He is strong mentally and he always wants to learn from everybody and wants to listen.

"I think that is a thing which is even more important than all the ability he has. This is the main reason I think he has a very bright future in football."