Blackburn Rovers academy graduate Joe Rankin-Costello’s transition from youth prospect to first-team regular hasn’t made for the easiest period on an individual level.
Blackburn Rovers man Rankin-Costello has played in numerous roles over the course of his career. He started further forward on the right-wing while also playing through the middle as a number 10. The Stockport-born ace was also played slightly deeper in the middle as a central midfielder though, while also filling in on the left if needs be.
However now, he plays almost entirely as a right-back, and in recent months, he’s finally nailed down a place in the side.
After Callum Brittain’s injury, Rankin-Costello was brought in from the fringes just when it seemed is Rovers career was on the decline. There were concerns from supporters about the reliance on him initially, but he quickly dispelled those worries.
Since then, Rankin-Costello has been one of Blackburn Rovers’ most impressive performances. He’s managed to hold onto the starting role since Brittain’s return and has played a key part in their upturn in form.
With that in mind, it seems about time that he’s rewarded for his efforts.
Rankin-Costello’s deal expires at the end of the 2023/24 season, so while there’s no immediate threat of losing him for nothing, it makes sense to secure his future now. Rovers won’t want to be stung by letting him enter the final 12 months of his deal to put themselves at risk of losing another top performer for nothing, and his situation will surely start to stir interest from elsewhere if not addressed.
While not necessarily a pressing matter yet, getting ahead of contract situations will only work in Rovers’ favour. Tying Rankin-Costello down to a new deal will only make it easier on themselves while giving the academy graduate a much-deserved reward for his recent efforts.
