MOVE over Ianis Hagi, there’s a new B team star in town.
One who has been there all along.
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Romanian ace Hagi has returned to Philippe Clement‘s first-team in the past few weeks after a contract wrangle was ironed out.
And he was on the mark for the Gers back-up squad in the Glasgow Cup win over Partick Thistle just two days after a watching the top side win the Premier Sports Cup semi against Motherwell.
From Hampden’s sidelines he switched to the Gers training centre just outside Milngavie – but he was outshone there too.
Instead it was youngster Findlay Curtis who added to his incredible goal tally with a HAT-TRICK against the Jags.
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His ten-minute treble added to an incredible goal haul for the 18-year-old – who ISN’T even a STRIKER.
He’s scored 54 times since coming to the attention of the youth ranks two years ago.
And even when he’s mixing it in multi-million pound company with Danilo, Hagi and ex-AC Milan kid Clinton Nsiala he’s coming out on top.
Now he hope Clement is paying attention as well as eyeing Hagi and Danilo’s progress.
He told his club website: “I’m delighted. A hat-trick is what I want, and I want to keep on scoring goals.
“It was a sloppy start from us, but we were ruthless in the final third and I’m buzzing off the hat-trick.
“I want to keep on scoring goals and getting my numbers up this year. I burst into the penalty box to get that third and fortunately it went in.
“I’ve scored 12 goals and got two assists in my last 15 or so games. It’s good and it’s just about getting my numbers up.
“The manager at first-team level always talks about his wingers getting in-behind, getting to the back post, and scoring goals.
“That’s what I’m trying to do and hopefully he recognises that.”
He’s not alone.
With the mood around the Gers first-team not exactly bouncing, fans have called for Curtis to be given a go to show what he can do at the top level.
Reaction online to his ten-minute hat-trick on Tuesday saw plenty of first-team calls.
Ianis Hagi – in focus
Ianis Hagi is a Romanian professional footballer known for his versatility and skill on the field. Born on 22 October 1998 in Istanbul, Turkey, he is the son of the legendary Romanian footballer Gheorghe Hagi. Ianis has followed in his father’s footsteps, carving out a promising career in football.
Early Career: Ianis Hagi began his football journey at a young age, joining the youth academy of Viitorul Constanța, a club founded and managed by his father. His talent was evident early on, and he quickly progressed through the ranks.
Professional Debut: Hagi made his professional debut for Viitorul Constanța in December 2014, at the age of 16. His performances caught the eye of scouts from top European clubs, leading to a move to Fiorentina in the Italian Serie A in 2016. However, he struggled to secure a regular first-team spot and returned to Viitorul Constanța in 2018.
Genk: In 2019, Hagi transferred to Belgian club Genk, where he continued to develop his skills. His time at Genk was marked by impressive performances in both domestic and European competitions.
Rangers: In January 2020, Hagi joined Scottish club Rangers on loan, with the move being made permanent later that year. At Rangers, he quickly became a fan favourite, known for his creativity, vision, and ability to score crucial goals. He played a significant role in helping Rangers secure the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020-2021 season, ending Celtic’s nine-year dominance.
International Career: Ianis Hagi has also been a key player for the Romanian national team, representing his country at various youth levels before making his senior debut in 2018. He has been an important figure in Romania’s midfield, contributing both goals and assists.
Playing Style: Hagi is known for his technical ability, dribbling skills, and precise passing. He is capable of playing in various attacking roles, including as an attacking midfielder, winger, or second striker. His vision and creativity make him a valuable asset in breaking down defences and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Honours:
- Scottish Premiership: 2020-2021 (with Rangers)
- Scottish Cup: 2021-2022 (with Rangers)
One wrote: “Young Findlay Curtis with a hat-trick to add to his outrageous goal tally Get him up in the first team pronto.”
Another added: “Get him and [Bailey] Rice in the team…quality and they play with passion and no fear!”
A third said: “First team chance beckons for the boy Finlay Curtis soon surely.”
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And another explained: “Worth highlighting that Findlay Curtis is NOT a striker! He can’t do much more in the B team so he either needs to be given a chance or he’ll have to leave for his own development.”
As well as Hagi’s opener and Curtis’ treble, Chris Eadie was also on the scoresheet.
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