Rangers’ return to the top tier of Scottish football promised to bring back the fierce old firm rivalry against Celtic last season, but the Hoops’ sheer dominance pointed out the difference between two age-old Glasgow rivals and the light blues, quite understandably, were determined to close the gap with a fresh approach as well as investment to get over the darkest years. They, however, had a miserable inception under Pedro Caixinha who showed signs of promises towards the end of the previous campaign since his appointment as the Gers gaffer, but his disastrous transfer business and shambolic outcomes resulted in an obvious dismissal. He has been succeeded by caretaker boss Graeme Murty who has brought back the much-required stability and kept them in the chase for the runners-up spot ahead of Aberdeen.
Murty has not only restored consistency but also concentrating on tying down his prized assets to long-term deals. The days after James Tavernier’s contract extension, Rangers FC have succeeded to convince young attacker Josh Windass to stay for at least three-and-a-half years more as he penned a new deal until the summer of 2021. The Scottish heavyweights had to pay a £60,000 compensation fee to League Two side Accrington Stanley for their prodigy back in summer, 2016 but struggled in his maiden campaign as he lacked enough first-team opportunities.
Windass, however, has become a crucial name since the beginning of the new campaign and netted 12 times so far in all competitions. He has mostly been used in the left-flank but also as a ‘number 10 ‘ and withdrawal forward at times. His impressive run made him a transfer target of a host of Championship sides including Leeds United and Preston North End, but the Englishman stayed put and the club rejected every offer they received for Windass last month.
The young attacker is known for his pace, tricky runs, link-up play and great goal-poaching instinct. He, along with Alfredo Morelos, has made it to the scoresheet on frequent occasions and Murty, the Gers gaffer, is keen on keeping hold of the young attacking duo for years to come.
Morelos, the 21-year-old Colombian, is enjoying a scintillating debut season since completing a summer move from HJK Helsinki and has scored 15 times already in all competitions. Rangers have rejected a big money offer from Chinese outfit Beijing Renhe and are set to offer him a new contract as well to ensure his stay.
The light blues have certainly made progress compared to the previous term but need to work harder to reach the standards they used to be known for. Tying down Windass is a right move forward which implies the club is moving in the right direction to reconquer their lost throne.
The young Englishman is eyeing to score at least 20 goals this term and is right on track to achieve his season objectives. He netted a brace in Rangers’ Scottish Cup Fifth Round outing against League One outfit Ayr United and is determined to continue his scoring run against Sunday afternoon Premiership opponents Hamilton Academical.
