Dundee’s suspicious voting U-turn has brought Celtic inches closer to their ninth successive Premiership title despite Rangers’ severe allegations over SPFL’s transparency. But they probably have to swallow the defeat now and prepare themselves up for the upcoming term with a vow to spoil the Hoops’ ‘ten in a row’ party.
Having said that, the Gers were having a shambolic domestic run this year after the winter break and should focus on strengthening the squad this summer with an array of high-profile names. The potential exit of Alfredo Morelos would be a massive blow considering the Colombian’s consistent scoring return. Steven Gerrard must utilise his reputation and influence to bring in a smart alternative of their 29-goal striker.
Meanwhile, the recent quotes of Charlie Austin must be encouraging for both the Glasgow giants. The 30-year-old Englishman was close to joining the Hoops during his time at Burnley, but the move did not materialise despite then-boss Neil Lennon’s interest. Celtic roped in Teemu Pukki and Amido Balde to replace Norwich City-bound Gary Hooper, and Austin eventually ended up at QPR.
However, the veteran centre-forward is still keen on a move to Scotland and has high regards for the Old Firm derby as revealed to Open Goal’s Keeping the Ball on the Ground podcast.
“Yeah, I think so. The Old Firm derby is the pull isn’t it to play in Scotland. You want to win things as such too. If the opportunity came up would I go? I think so yeah.”
Presently at West Brom, Austin is spearheading the Baggies’ attack in their bid to reclaim a place in the English top tier under Slaven Bilic. But he might grab the opportunity to experience Scottish football, and the Gers who are in the market for a proven goalscorer must tie him down ahead of their bitter rivals.
Why Rangers Need Him More
Jermain Defoe, turning 38 later this year, is at the twilight of a glorious career. Florian Kamberi, on loan from Hibernian, is uncertain of his Ibrox future due to limited gametime since joining the Light Blues on the winter deadline. Morelos is having a host of high-profile suitors across the continent and the signing of Austin, therefore, is essential to reconfiguring the attacking line for the upcoming campaign.
The West Brom forward has fired in 8 times in 26 league games this season while being deployed from the bench on 13 occasions (Stats via Transfermarket). Austin’s presence upfront would not only bring goals to the game but also add much-needed experience that the Bears lacked during the past few months while chasing Celtic for the coveted Premiership title.
