Rangers head coach Derek McInnes has hailed Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya after the South African produced a sensational performance in his Old Firm debut against Celtic.
The 22-year-old joined the Scottish giants from MLS side Philadelphia Union and has wasted little time making an impression, quickly becoming a fan favourite at Ibrox.
- ALSO READ: Makhanya Features As Rangers Crush Celtic To Reach Cup Semis
- Mbule Helps Zakho Back To Winning Ways
Makhanya was handed his first taste of the Old Firm rivalry as Rangers secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Celtic, with McInnes full of praise for the young defender’s display.
“He’s been sensational, he really has and it’s tough to single anyone out but the bigger the game, the bigger the performance and you’re learning about your players, but you are absolutely right,” McInnes said in his post-match press conference.
Makhanya’s versatility was also crucial to Rangers’ victory, with the South African starting on the left side of a back three before being moved to right-back during the match.
The tactical demands placed on the youngster did little to affect his performance, with McInnes particularly impressed by the trust the former Stellenbosch FC talent has already earned since arriving in Scotland.
“He was absolutely first class, and we ask a lot of him. We started him as left of three [in defence] and he ended up at right back, and wherever I play him, for somebody so young, for someone who’s just come into the country, to the club, there’s trust,” the Rangers boss added.
“I need to be able to trust my players and I feel as if I can trust, I think he’s been almost faultless since he’s came into the building.”
Makhanya broke into the Bafana Bafana set-up before the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has been named in the preliminary squad by new head coach Pitso Mosimane, for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers this month.
Did you know that the iDiski Times Digital Newspaper is completely free! Download it now by clicking the button below or fill in the form to have it sent to you every week.