When we look at the shots of Niko Katic we can’t help but be convinced this is finally his year to shine.

24 and built like the proverbial brick sh*thouse, the Croat has waited 3 years to clinch a first-team berth and be the defender we know he is capable of.

Indeed, in those three years at Ibrox, he’s made just 59 appearances, which is less than a full season worth. True, injury destroyed 55 for him, but it’s also worth remembering he’s never been a favourite of Stevie, who said in 2019 the reason for Filip Helander struggling to get game time was Katic’s form, before ruthlessly dropping the ex-Slaven Belupo man.

Just as he had in 2018 when Joe Worrall was the alternative.

Yes, Katic has had a bit of a raw deal at Ibrox – the kicker in 2019 was Katic’s form was absolutely devastating, but still he lost his place.

The boy has rebuilt his body after that ACLI last summer, and is fit as a fiddle, strong as an ox, and ready to finally, FINALLY realise his destiny.

Will Katic truly be a starter this season?

We hope so. We hope he’s grown up, learnt the game, matured, and is ready to use his assets to good effect.

And that he’s ready to secure a long-term shirt at last.

That would be popular with everyone.