According to a recent exclusive interview conducted by Football Insider, former Premier League striker Darren Bent has urged Steven Gerrard’s Rangers side to tie Connor Goldson down to a new deal. The legendary attacker labelled the Englishman as being ‘vital’ to the Rangers project, and wanted to see him being offered a new long-term deal before he enters the final year of his current contract next season. The important centre-half is yet to miss even a minute of action this season, and even had key parts to play in a number of matches during the campaign.
Through the interview, Bent has urged Rangers to offer Connor Goldson a new deal, in a move that is sure to be on Steven Gerrard’s mind as well. Speaking on the matter, the former English striker said, “I don’t know what it is about football clubs at the minute but they’re allowing their best players to get to their final year. I always think to myself, don’t let your best players get to their final year. He’s done really well for them so just get it done. I know clubs want to save money here and there but you can’t allow players to walk away for nothing. If they’re an integral part of your team don’t let them walk away.”
What Is Rangers’ Current Defensive Situation?
The Ibrox club have had what has arguably been their best start to a season in recent history, as they currently find themselves sitting pretty at the top of the league table. Not only have they opened up a clear gap between themselves and Celtic in second place, but they also managed to outclass the Hoops in the Old Firm derby this season. For all the good attacking play that Gerrard’s men have produced, it must be conceded that none of it would’ve been possible had it not been for their stellar defensive security. The likes of Connor Goldson and James Tavernier have stepped up when required and given Allan McGregor in goal a rather simple job to do so far.
The Gers have a number of centre-half options to choose from at this point in time as well, having acquired the services of Nigerian international defender Leon Balogun in the summer. The former Brighton man’s displays haven’t been underwhelming by any stretch of the imagination, with his exclusion from the side the sole result of the good form being displayed by their two first-choice names. Filip Helander, alongside Goldson, has formed a perpetual wall at the back for Gerrard’s side, and their amazing defensive record, having conceded just three goals in the league, is a commendable achievement as well.
What Makes Connor Goldson Such A Key Part Of This Team?
The fact that James Tavernier is the skipper of this Rangers team is well established, but considering that the Englishman spends a majority of his time charging forward, Goldson is required to step in and take over on various instances. Capable of commanding the back-line in an efficient manner, the former Brighton man is vocal with his instructions, which in turn helps the players around him function effectively as well. Adept at dealing with aerial crosses into the box, it must be stated that Goldson is a brilliant defender on the ground as well. The number of last-ditch tackles he has made is truly impressive too.
Bent Has Urged Rangers To Offer Connor Goldson A New Deal: Should Gerrard Do It?
The English centre-half deserves massive credits for his exploits at the back this season, and taking his presence out of the team will almost certainly mean an increased goal concession rate. As good as his defensive contributions have been, it’s worth taking into account that he has had key parts to play going forward as well. In fact, it was him who actually scored both the goals in their 2-0 win over fierce rivals Celtic earlier in the campaign. Given the importance that Goldson plays on the team itself, tying him down on a long-term deal is a necessity, and considering that his current one expires at the end of next season, it’s a matter that Gerrard should look to expedite.
