Rangers might have finished above Aberdeen last season, but Derek McInnes’ men were a thorn in Rangers’ path whenever they faced each other. However, Gerrard was able to banish those blues from the previous campaign as the Gers recently thrashed Aberdeen 5-0 at the Ibrox Stadium.
Aberdeen had a nightmare game on the day, but Rangers also deserve some major credit for the way they played. One player who was a surprise pick in the lineup was Greg Stewart. The versatile attacker had joined Rangers on a free transfer this summer, and he was primarily seen as a squad player.
However, Gerrard gave him the nod to start against the Dons, and the Englishman didn’t disappoint as he played a stellar role in the middle. Gerrard had earlier used him on the flanks, but he surprised everyone this time by giving him a free role as an attacking midfielder.
Gerrard on why Stewart started against Aberdeen
Gerrard revealed that Stewart’s efforts in training were the reason why he started in the crucial tie. The manager said (Daily Record), ”I think it’s important that people know it had nothing to do with sentiment why he started today. His training performances have been outstanding, the quality that he’s shown. I think he’s fitter now; he’s in better shape
Stewart’s recent emergence: A big boost for Rangers?
Stewart contributed with one goal, but he could have had a hattrick on another day. His link-up play was impressive, and Aberdeen failed to close him down often in the final third.
Rangers had been lacking a proper no. 10 for quite a while and they had problems in opening up defences last season. Stewart, who can play as a striker as well on the flanks, was given a free role in the middle for the first time. Gerrard would be glad that Stewart has made an impressive comeback to his first-team.
Many would agree that he was one of the contenders for the man of the match award against the Dons. Hopefully, this performance will give the former Birmingham City man more confidence, and he will kick on with his Rangers career from here onwards. There were question marks over his arrival as he struggled for Aberdeen in the second half of the previous campaign when he was there on loan. However, Stewart has won over plenty of naysayers after his recent performance and Gerrard would hope that he can continue to impress.
