Today we’re focusing a bit on left back, and specifically Ridvan Yilmaz. We discussed how Rangers’ new first-choice has usurped former stalwart Borna Barisic in that slot, and we even mentioned that the young Turk has actually gone past Barisic in what was the Croat’s big selling point – crossing.

Indeed, looking at both players’ stats this season is very interesting reading, and demonstrates Yilmaz’ rise to prominence starkly.

The big one is of course crossing. Barisic shades Yilmaz for crossing percent accuracy, 30.17% to 26.28%, but Yilmaz manages more, 41 to 35. In short, what previously was Barisic’s home turf Yilmaz has gone past him.

And remarkably? He’s done it with less minutes this season – 1905 minutes to Barisic’s 2111.

But what of defence?

Tackling? Yilmaz has 24, Barisic 22.

Interceptions? Ridvan 18, Barisic 12.

Clearances? Yilmaz 21, Barisic 24.

And assists?

Yilmaz has 1, Barisic has 3.

Overall, Barisic doesn’t offer anything Yilmaz can’t, and he’s 10 years older. In most stats Barisic is inferior, in the stuff that matters to the team and the flow of the game, he lags behind in almost everything.

Defensively Ridvan has been excellent, Rangers’ left rarely being exposed when he plays.

But the big feather in Barisic’s cap, crossing, has remarkably become Yilmaz’ forte. Yilmaz has matched/exceeded Barisic in this area, and while Yilmaz might never have the miracle overall pinpoint left peg the Croat does, he gets in more accurate crosses than his rival.

It’s taken Ridvan a lot of time to finally secure that first-team berth, but there’s no evidence he’s going to give it up any time soon.

He’s just a better player now than Barisic. In every which way.