After an unimpressive loan spell with Rangers, which saw 21-year-old Umar Sadiq, failing to start a Scottish Premiership game for a whole five months, Steven Gerrard has given the green light for the Nigerian youngster to leave Ibrox.

With just three weeks before the transfer window opens for the coach to sign a replacement, Sadiq’s departure will pave the way for a January bid to land Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke on loan.

Sadiq, who spoke to reporters, had previously played down talk of a January return to Italy after struggling for game-time.

He said: “It’s too soon to talk about movements.

“I am here to play football and I know it won’t be easy.

“Its a privilege to work with a living legend like Steven Gerrard.

“I’m working hard in training and we’re doing the right things.

“It’s just too early to talk about leaving. Let’s just see how the future turns out.”

Gerrard has lost his patience with hopes of the striker being part of his plans and he has been allowed to return to Italy.