Gers loanee Zak Rudden is certainly making his mark in the Scottish Championship.
Despite the 18-year-old seeing some Rangers first team action in pre-season, it was decided that a loan spell would be beneficial for his development. Behind Morelos, Lafferty and likely even Umar Sadiq in the pecking order at that point, few could argue with the logic behind the decision.
In Falkirk, he joined a Championship club with decent facilities, where game time would be much more plentiful.
Yet, much more than just getting minutes and experience under his belt, he has made a real impact.
He netted four times in his first four competitive fixtures for the side. This including a brace to secure their first league win of the season at Alloa.
Since then, more challenging times arrived. While his team languished at the foot of the table, a series of bookings was all he earned from the next handful of fixtures.
However, on Saturday, he bounced back from a two-week absence to net twice in a shock win at Inverness. After conceding early, Rudden’s brace dragged The Bairns in front, setting up all three points.
The result saw them leapfrog floundering Partick Thistle, who now prop up the division.
Should Rangers be looking to bring him back early?
It’s great to see a Gers youth product taking the opportunity to apply himself elsewhere. Without his goals, Falkirk would have two points from 15 matches, so it’s likely they are extremely grateful for his services.
Yet, I don’t believe bringing him back would be a wise move. This period as the main man at his temporary home is crucial for his development.
Opportunities up top would be scarce as Gerrard’s men look to push ahead on several fronts, and for now, he is better off out of the limelight. Let’s hope we see more match defining performances from him in the weeks to come.