Rangers were in complete disarray when Steven Gerrard accepted the managerial role back in summer and assured the supporters of a better future ahead following a strong inception in early months. He focused on regrouping the backline with a string of defensive inclusions but must be worried of late as his side kept only a couple of clean sheets in last ten encounters.
Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic, both the new signings earned applauds initially as a resilient central defensive duo, but the latter eventually lost his place to Nottingham Forest loanee Joe Worrall due to a series of nervy appearances. Katic was brought back into action against Spartak Moskva where the Gers lost 4-3 despite leading thrice in the game, and his display failed to convince the gaffer yet again versus Motherwell which led to a half-time substitution with veteran Gareth McAuley.
McAuley, who will turn 39 in less than a month time is still going strong for Northern Ireland and showed great resilience and composure at the back versus the Steelmen in his side’s thumping 7-1 triumph. The former West Brom centre-back was introduced in the final seconds in Moscow, and the minutes against Motherwell handed him precious game-time since completing a Bosman move back in early September.
“I still have the enthusiasm to do it. I like to train. Pulling up at Ibrox last weekend I felt like 18 instead of 38. As long as I feel fit and able to compete and able to train every day to the standard that’s needed, then I’ll continue to do it.”
The 6 ft 5 in defender did not hide his ecstasy after making his first real contribution for the club he used to support as a kid and the experience as well as discipline brought in by him helped the Gers to stretch the margin at the other end.
Goldson, a revelation in Rangers defence, looked worn out in recent fixtures and the ongoing break would allow him enough time to recover before a busy schedule ahead. The presence of McAuley as his central defensive partner should enhance his self-reliance due to the physicality and aerial supremacy the veteran offers inside the box.
