Former Rangers player Maurice Ross has expressed confidence in Olwethu Makhanya's ability to reach Europe's top football tiers, potentially joining clubs like Liverpool.
Makhanya, a Durban-born defender, quickly made his mark in the Scottish Premiership after transferring from Philadelphia Union for €3.5 million. His achievements include a Player of the Month award, and Ross views him as Rangers' standout acquisition.
Discussing Makhanya’s prospects on a podcast, Ross highlighted his potential to excel beyond Europe’s usual progression for defenders, citing Virgil Van Dijk’s career path as inspiration.
Although Van Dijk progressed through intermediary clubs, Ross suggests Makhanya may move directly to elite teams, thanks to his strong athleticism, composure, and innate defensive talent.
Ross compared Makhanya to former Rangers and Newcastle defender Jean-Alain Boumsong, suggesting Makhanya has the potential to surpass him.
Aside from club duties, Makhanya has been selected for Bafana Bafana’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya.
