Calvin Bassey's struggles at Ajax have been partly placed on his time at Rangers.

The Dutch side's boss, Johnny Heitinga, has apportioned some of the blame on the Nigeria international's poor form to him still trying to adapt to a new style in The Netherlands.

The 23-year-old has been used sparingly by Ajax's new manager. 

The former Everton defender took over the reins in Amsterdam following the sacking of Alfred Schreuder, as he looks to get their Eredivise title bid back on track.

Bassey has been heavily criticised by elements of the media, pundits and fans since his move to Dutch football. 

In particular, the ex-Gers star's use of the ball has been pinpointed as a weakness.

He started Ajax's Europa League last 32 play-off match against Union Berlin last Thursday. However, he was back on the bench during their 4-0 victory over Sparta Rotterdam yesterday.

He did get a 20-minute cameo at the Johan Cruyff Arena, as Heitinga, 39, subbed the powerful defender on.

And the boss offered some support to Bassey and his struggles, insisting he's still looking to overcome the way he was used to playing in Scotland.

He told ESPN: “Calvin is a top professional. He comes from Glasgow and knows a different way of playing. In Holland, a lot is demanded on the ball and you play with a lot of space behind you.

“He can defend. We have to help him and make sure he has plenty of opportunities, but we know how long the rest of the season is. We are going to need him.”

READ MORE: Nicolas Raskin makes Hampden vow as Rangers gear up for Celtic clash

Meanwhile, Nicolas Raskin has declared himself ready and raring to go as he targets the first silverware of his Rangers career at Hampden.

The midfielder has made an immediate impact at Ibrox following his deadline day move from Standard Liege as boss Michael Beale landed one of his main transfer targets on a long term deal.

Raskin followed up a cameo against Ross County and start in the win over Partick Thistle with another accomplished showing on Saturday as Rangers overcame Livingston in a comfortable Premiership fixture.

Captain James Tavernier netted twice before Kemar Roofe rounded off an impressive victory to ensure Beale's side extended their unbeaten run and maintained their momentum heading into the Viaplay Cup final next Sunday.

The Hampden showdown will be a first Old Firm experience for Raskin and he is in line to start on derby day as Beale sweats over the fitness of John Lundstram, Ryan Jack and Malik Tillman on the eve of the Celtic clash.