Lawrence Shankland tipped for Europe transfer return as Hearts star a 'different' player

Lawrence Shankland has been tipped to return to Europe and make a success of himself this time.

The Scotland striker had the briefest of spells on the continent with Belgian side Beerschot who had signed him from Dundee United, before returning to his home country with Hearts. That proved to be a wise choice as he turned himself into one of the best strikers in the country, sweeping the league's player of the year awards after a 31-goal campaign.

With that form comes interest and the 28-year-old has long been touted for a move to Rangers with previously reported interest from England and Saudi Arabia. Former Jambos bosss Csaba Laszlo says European sides shouldn't be put off by his stint in Belgium and reckons Shankland be a success on the continent.

He said: "Shankland is a different player to the one I saw in Belgium. I was in the frame to be the Beerschot coach. I knew the team well. They had Frederic Frans, who I had at United, and I had many conversations with the sporting directors.

"They asked me a lot about Shankland because, practically, he failed - but he didn't get the trust from the coaches and was often on the bench. His career in Europe was seen as a failure but he's a guy who you MUST trust.

"In that sense, he is a bit of a mystery. But I am curious if he wants to go abroad again. He could try again and do better next time.

"Shankland was discovered late for the national team and he's not first choice for Scotland yet. But he's ALWAYS good for a goal any time. He's a fighter, a goalscorer and brings lots of positive energy."