Rangers, a resurgent force under Steven Gerrard, are going strong at home as well as in Europe. They are a threat to Celtic in their ‘nine-in-a-row’ mission, and the ample squad depth is helping the Gers maintain their flying form. Gerrard is rotating his options frequently, and consistency has become the key to retaining first-team status for any player, established or not.
Sheyi Ojo started his Rangers stint brightly but has struggled off late to perform week in, week out. This has frustrated Alan Hutton, their former fullback, who believes that the Liverpool loanee is jeopardising his Ibrox future. The 22-year-old wide attacker has fired and laid on five times each in 23 appearances across all competitions but has failed to threaten enough of late while running down the right-hand flank.
“How can I say it? Sometimes it’s frustrating because we know there’s a good player in there – he’s got pace, we know he can take people on but he doesn’t always do it. He gets the opportunities, gets in good positions but he doesn’t quite have the finish.”
Hutton told Football Insider and believes there are two or three players who would fit in a similar role.
Why Hutton Has A Case Here
Ojo is indeed talented but lacks the maturity in his game. He gets isolated when the opponents control the show and his decision making, as well as poor final ball, often let him and his teammates down in the attacking third. The youngster has only registered a couple of assists in his past nine league appearances and was dropped against Porto for Brandon Barker in the Bears’ famous 2-0 European victory a week ago.
While Barker is getting more minutes recently after a slow start following his summer move from Manchester City, veteran Scott Arfield is also being deployed down the wide to utilise his versatility and experience high up the pitch. Ojo, therefore, is slipping down the pecking order and must uplift his display to stake a claim in Gerrard’s long-term plan.
Why Ojo Still Has a Lot To Offer In Rangers’ Colours
The former England youth international must be struggling to meet the expectations but, at the same time, remains integral to the gaffer’s season objectives. His versatility across the frontline is crucial, and the same could be put to use while altering the strategy in tricky encounters. Ojo would be more effective if introduced late in the game as his pace, power and stamina might see the Gers grinding out results late in the contest.
