When the void existed with respect to the managerial spot at the Ibrox Stadium after the departure of Mark Warburton, Pedro Caixinha’s introduction in the list of prospective replacements was really a shocker for the Rangers faithful. For a relatively young manager, who doesn’t have much of experience under his belt, getting the nod to be the Rangers gaffer eventually underlined that the Glasgow-based club were willing to roll their dice and try something out of the box.
A summer of exodus and incomings wait as the former Al-Gharafa manager is ready to reclassify Rangers as a side capable enough to mount a serious challenge to their arch rivals, Celtic, and the likes for the Ladbrokes Premiership as well as other domestic glories. Shrewd deals will hold paramount importance and one of the players Caixinha could plan of luring under his ranks is Zenit St. Petersburg’s veteran midfielder Danny.
Danny used to play for Sporting Lisbon when the newly appointed Rangers’ manager was the assistant manager of the Portuguese club. Prior to his move to Zenit, the 33-year-old attacking midfielder carved a fine name for himself whilst plying his trade for Dynamo Moscow and was eventually taken away to the Krestovsky Stadium for a whopping transfer fee of £30m.
Danny took very little time to settle at Zenit and imposed himself as a daunting figure for the opponents. The Light Blues really need a high-calibre proven figure and the Portuguese international can play a pivotal role in their resurrection next season.
Danny can operate as an attacking midfielder on either wing but can be equally productive when manoeuvred in a central midfield position as well. His relentless toil, ability to tear up the opponents’ defence with pace, well-built frame to physically outclass the opponents and the knack to score goals as well as to create them are some of the most illuminating characteristics that he possesses. Besides, he also has the experience at the top level and isn’t unfamiliar with how the duties are discharged in a top club.
Intriguingly, he has fallen behind in the pecking order under the reign of Mircea Lucescu and his contract expires in the summer, which puts the ball in the court of the Gers. Danny’s wages might be an issue for the Teddy Bears but he is a serial winner who has proven his value time and again and can very well be the marquee signing for Rangers next season.
