Rangers once again displayed just how far this team has come in such a short space of time under the new manager. A quite remarkable upturn rarely witnessed in modern football. The only negative was that Sunday’s empathic 3-1 win (despite what BBC Scotland say) came at a high price, in the serious injury suffered by Jaime Murphy, due, in large part, to the plastic pitch.
I think every single Rangers fan has been blown away by just how good this team is looking at present. However what Sunday did show up was that we are just a little short in terms of numbers for the squad, especially if we make the Europa League group stages. That would mean a heavy fixture list and the possibility a great deal of travel.
In my opinion, we still need to bring two/three more in even with the addition of Kyle Lafferty. A central defender is an absolute must, not to come in and dislodge Katic or Goldson but just to provide cover and give us further options, allowing us to be more flexible in games, changing the formation at times.
I think a Gareth McCauley-type fits the bill and I’m sure the veteran would jump at the chance, providing not only a great deal of experience and cover but in a good dressing room presence.
Competition and cover are also needed up top. Morelos is in the form of his life, but I’m afraid I just don’t think Sadiq will cut it. His link-up play is pretty poor, and he does not suit our style. We could do a lot worse than look at our previous opponents Maribor to fill that void. Amir Dervisevic is a player who caught the eye at 6ft 5 he fits our profile and can score goals as well as create. Why not make a move, test the water. after all, Maribor has no money from Europe coming in.
The injury suffered to Murphy means we will now no doubt need to strengthen in the wide areas. Personally, I’d like us to make a move for Jordan Jones, the Kilmarnock wide man impressed me on Sunday. He is the one player in the league who Tavernier fears for pace. Tavernier was constantly on his heels every time Jones got on the ball, his direct running was Kilmarnock’s only real threat throughout the game.
Sunday showed that he can tuck in playing in a narrower formation – something Gerrard has asked his wide players to do – most notably, in European away fixtures so far. I see him as the ideal replacement for Murphy who will be badly missed while he recovers from injury.
Look, I understand Kilmarnock will not be easy to deal with, no great surprise to anyone I’m sure. Some fans might see the reported 800k fee as too high. But this is an international player who I feel will only get better and better.
If we don’t make a move, rest assured some other club will.
