Rangers fans should be delighted with what Michael Beale told Rangers TV on Wednesday as the 42-year-old eyes major changes.
What’s the story?
Well, Beale told Rangers TV about his desire to trim the squad this summer, with far too many passengers on the payroll at Ibrox.
The Rangers boss said: “We have too many players at this moment in time, in my opinion. There’s a reason why we’ve carried one or two more due to injuries, to supplement that.
“I want players to have real clarity on their role in the squad. It’s difficult the more players you have.
“If I look in the top leagues and top teams, you look at Arsenal at the minute, they’ve had the most consistent eleven. I know from history, being at Liverpool, when they won that was the case as well. When we won the league, we had a core of seven or eight that played (most games).”
So, why should these comments delight Rangers fans?
Well, not only would a smaller squad enhance chances of success – as Beale believes – but it would also free up plenty of space on the wage bill to bring better players to Ibrox.
As things stand, the likes of Filip Helander – who sees his contract expire in June regardless – picks up £14,000-a-week in Glasgow, although he is yet to make a single appearance this season.
Others – such as Rabbi Matondo, who hasn’t scored in 21 appearances – could also be axed, with the Wales international’s hefty £28,000-a-week salary surely better used elsewhere.
Ruthless Michael Beale will help Rangers
Any top side needs to have ruthlessness in their core – even when it comes to offloading some of their own.
Look at Liverpool, for example.
Jürgen Klopp has recently been criticised for playing the likes of Jordan Henderson, Joel Matip and James Milner beyond their sell-by date and being too loyal, with the Reds now appearing very stale and find themselves ninth in the Premier League.
Therefore, Beale’s comments about trimming the squad should please Rangers fans, as it proves the Bromley-born tactician is not at Ibrox to make friends – he’s here to succeed.
