Steven Gerrard is finally making the fans dream after decade-long despair and the Gers, under his tutelage, are unstoppable across competitions. His signings have been standout from day 1, and according to The Scottish Sun, the Liverpool legend is now plotting a swoop for the boyhood Rangers fan, Kenny McLean, ahead of the winter window.
The 28-year-old Scotsman showcased sheer composure in both the shoot-outs against Israel and Serbia as he netted the decisive spot-kick to guide the Tartan Army through to the Euro 2020. Scotland have qualified for a major international tournament in 22 years and the Bears would be jubilant to welcome the nation’s hero who was close to returning to Ibrox on two previous occasions.
Why Rangers Are Favourites To Rope In McLean
McLean had a brief stint at Rangers academy before leaving for St Mirren. An impressive run earned him a move to Aberdeen and his all-round ability in the middle of the park saw him plying his trade to England with Norwich City a few years later.
He played a key role in the Canaries’ promotion to Premier League, and Daniel Farke used him extensively (42 appearances across competitions) last season in the top tier of English football.
Meanwhile, the player has only been handed four league stars (out of 11 fixtures) so far this term following relegation [stats via Transfermarket] and the speculations have gathered some pace of late for obvious reasons. Rangers tried to get him during the previous window and might reignite their interest again with assured minutes ahead of next year’s European Championship.
How He Would Fit In Gerrard’s Game
Rangers might offer a winter loan with an obligation to buy McLean in the summer. A fee paid in the instalments could be pursued considering the instability in the financial climate amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Scotland international would inject a new dimension in midfield for his expertise both centrally as well as down the left.
Gerrard has ample options in his ranks but is highly reliant on Glen Kamara in the left-midfield role. Joe Aribo’s versatility has been explored at times to cover and challenge the Finnish professional. Still, the addition of the Norwich ace would enrich the current set-up with further depth, quality and adaptability. McLean, too, should prefer a return to his homeland and experience European football over Championship mediocrity.
