Steven Gerrard would have been keeping a close eye on the first throes of Euro 2020 qualifying last night.
With Kyle Lafferty, Steven Davis and Jordan Jones all in action, Northern Ireland vs Estonia in Belfast, would have been of particular interest.
Jones’ bright display impressed fans and may have excited the Gers boss.
The same can’t be said of Kyle Lafferty’s performance, though.
His inclusion from the start ahead of Liam Boyce, Conor Washington and Josh Magennis, was a little surprising due to his lack of game time at Ibrox.
He’s short of match sharpness at the minute and that was readily apparent.
In the first half, in particular, whether passes came in the air or to feet, nothing seemed to stick.
MORE RANGERS STORIES
Estonia’s defenders were physical, but they are hardly top-class operators. A
FIFA ranking of 96th tells you that.
In the second period, the 71-cap veteran did improve a little.
There was a touch of fortune about how he controlled Jordan Jones’ cross, but he showed composure and laid the ball back well for Niall McGinn’s opener on 56 minutes.
With cramp appearing to set in, he was replaced by Josh Magennis after 76 minutes.
Windsor Park hosts more competitive action on Sunday evening, as N.I take on Belarus.
Unfortunately, though, with several other options waiting in the wings, Lafferty may not have done enough to retain his place.
