Kieran Dowell has gone from a forgotten man to a central figure for Rangers. Todd Cantwell never doubted his ability to rise to prominence.

Dowell was reunited with his former Norwich City team-mate when he followed in his footsteps and made the move north of the border in the summer. At various points since, he could have been forgiven for regretting his decision.

A promising start to the campaign wasn’t enough to earn him a place in the Europa League squad and the midfielder spent several months out of action as he became one of the first names on the lengthy injury list that has plagued Rangers this term. His patience has paid off, though.

Dowell came in from the cold to help Philippe Clement’s side see off St Johnstone last Wednesday evening. On Sunday, he set them on their way to victory over Motherwell.

Cantwell made sure of the points at Fir Park as he doubled Rangers’ lead. It was another day where Clement had to field a makeshift side but another that saw Rangers lay down a marker of their title intentions.

“I enjoy that position, there is no secret behind that whatsoever,” Cantwell said after another accomplished showing as the Rangers playmaker. “It’s a position where I feel I play my best football. 

“I don’t  know if I am showing my best football right now, but I am getting to that level and enjoying playing in that position for sure.

“I feel sorry for Kieran. He had a tough injury not long after he signed which is difficult because it changes what it looks like for him. 

“He came in, looked good and has been injured since. Fair play to him for his consistency in training. 

“Every single day he has been consistent. He is a top footballer, there is no secret to that. 

“I’ve had the joy of playing with him at Norwich and we were successful there. That’s the plan here too.

“Yeah [the guys are having to dig in]. I think that’s why you have a big squad. Dujon has come in and played like a regular central midfielder really. 

“I think it’s something good players can do, they can play in different positions. I think quite a few of our lads are stepping forward at the moment.”