Rangers FC, the Scottish heavyweights, clinched a third-placed Premiership finish last season in their returning campaign to the top tier but showed promises of redefining the age-old rivalry versus city counterparts Celtic and stake a claim for the lost throne. But the light Blues had a disastrous inception to their new campaign under Pedro Caixinha whose majority of signings failed to flourish in Scottish football and a series of dismal outing resulted in his dismissal.
The Portuguese tactician was succeeded by Graeme Murty, the former caretaker manager, who has now restored the success and scripted a resurgence to some extent. His winter signings have done an amazing job so far, but one Caixinha recommendation has proved his worth and registered a regular slot in Murty’s new-look squad.
Daniel Candeias, 30, was a shrewd business who joined the Gers from Benfica in a £700,00 move last summer and has featured regularly down the right-hand flank under both the managers. His good work has now been rewarded by the club who tie the Portuguese down until 2020 which makes the winger the fifth Rangers player to pen a long-term deal followed by defensive duo Ross McCrorie, James Tavernier, midfield sensation Josh Windass and attacking star Alfredo Morelos.
Candeias, who netted in his side’s shocking defeat to Celtic in Old Firm derby, has not been in the scoresheet as often as Windass or new arrival Jamie Murphy who are banging goals persistently from wide attacking roles. But his work-rate has been unparalleled so far this campaign and his incessant runs, as well as the defensive contribution, has allowed Tavernier to stride forward from the right-back slot to operate in advanced areas and link up with fellow attackers in or around the opponent’s box.
The former Portuguese youth international has been a great crosser of the ball who also loves to cut inside, do layoffs and test the keeper with long-range strikes. He did exceptionally well to adjust to a completely new environment and is now rightly rewarded as his hard work pays off.
Murty has now found out a proper attacking set-up after trying out various combinations and Candeias holds a place in a wide role. The new deal has certainly made him ecstatic and the player did not hesitate to express his delight while speaking to Rangers TV after ensuring his contract extension.
“The people want us to win trophies, and so do the players. This is the greatest club in the world when it comes to trophies, and now I want to win trophies with Rangers too.”
The Gers have shown a touch of class and glimpses of promises under Murty that have raised the expectations high for the supporters who are now dreaming of a fierce fight for the silverware. Celtic are indubitably well ahead in the race in terms of quality as well as consistency, but the Light Blues will be challenging the Hoops for the title glory from the next season onward and Brendan Rodgers might not have a stroll in the park like his first two campaigns in Scottish football.
