Reigning champions Rangers were dealt a massive blow in the Premiership race following a disastrous 3-0 defeat against Celtic. They are now second in the league standings and the outcome at Parkhead exposed certain frailties ahead of a tricky run of fixtures. A quick turnaround is essential to avoid more misery in the upcoming weeks.
While the Hoops continued bolstering the squad with further inclusions, Rangers were not far behind in terms of roping in new names last month. They have accomplished a couple of amazing deals for the remainder of the current term, but the approach of Giovanni van Bronckhorst let the Gers down big time away from home.
Having said that, the quality and depth across the pitch should see them recovering lost ground if the manager shows more courage with his gameplan and strategy in the coming days.
Incomings
Rangers stunned the football world by securing the services of Aaron Ramsey from Juventus for the remainder of the ongoing campaign. Despite having ample midfield options in their ranks, the 31-year-old Wales veteran would offer creative spark as well as leadership traits with his profound experience and vision. His late runs inside the box and defence-splitting through balls should improve their overall display once the ex-Gunners playmaker attunes to the physicality and aggression of the Scottish game.
While they have lost Ianis Hagi for the rest of the season, the decision of bringing in Amad Diallo on loan from Manchester United is another smart piece of transfer business from Ross Wilson. The Ivorian has slotted in well down the right-hand flank, whereas right fullback Mateusz Żukowski has been roped in from Lechia Gdańsk to replace Nathan Patterson. James Sands, capable of featuring both in defence and in the middle of the park, could be deployed as a utility option given the forthcoming fixture congestion.
Outgoings
The Light Blues have managed to offload a few fringe stars this winter who made little impact in limited opportunities. Juninho Bacuna, who only joined last summer from Huddersfield Town, has left for Birmingham City. Also, the likes of Jermain Defoe and Brandon Barker have been released upon mutual contract termination.
Patterson has been the only key exit as he rose through their academy ranks. However, the young Scotsman was only the understudy to skipper James Tavernier and his big-money move to Everton last month helped Rangers overcome financial constraints considering their spending spree under ex-boss Steven Gerrard.
Rangers Transfer Rating: 7/10
It’s been another eventful window for the Gers with quality additions. But they should have increased their offer for John Souttar in order to strengthen themselves in the heart of the defensive line.
