Van Bronckhorst has worked magic with Morelos
It’s to the Dutchman’s great credit he’s got Morelos back into superstar mode. In the dying embers of the Gerrard era the striker looked a diminished figure on the way to becoming second choice behind Kemar Roofe. There can be no doubt he’s a totally revitalised figure. Tonight, he had the bit between his teeth from the start. Touch, link-up, occupying defenders - this was Morelos circa 2019 once again. When the goal came it was utterly emphatic, lashing the ball past Matt Macey with venomous intent. He looks back to his very best and on this form, there are few better, certainly in Scotland and possibly outside of Europe’s top five leagues.
Leon Balgoun missed
Rangers started fast once again in this one but the defence didn’t ever look as solid once Balogun departed the action with what looked like a hamstring complaint after just 14 minutes. The Nigerian’s value has been underlined since returning from injury in the second half against Celtic last week and he another spell on the sidelines would be painful news. The blow will be slightly softened by the news another experienced stopper, Filip Helander, is likely to feature against Annan on Saturday. Youngster Calvin Bassey is a talent who will have a bright future and he may become a brilliant centre-half given his pace and power, but it’s clear he’s not ready to take on that responsibility yet. He looked shaky as he moved one across and Borna Barisic entered from the bench. Bassey improved as the game went on and had a good second half but Rangers is no place for a novice in such a crucial position. The demands are simply to great.
Lundstram finds his feet
It’s been a rocky start to life in Govan but in the last two games, the Scouser has added a muscularity to the midfield that’s been the cornerstone of the victories. Sitting at the base of the midfield, there were few attempts to do anything clever but there certainly was quiet, metronomic efficiency. Steven Gerrard was desperate to secure his signing because he felt the 27-year-old would bring power and drive to the midfield as well as the experience gleamed from his time in the best league in the world. It’s not worked but there were always flashes in Lundstram’s play that made it clear there was a player in there somewhere. Perhaps he’s finally moving into third gear and Rangers fans are set to finally see him at his best.
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