John Lundstram is a player who clearly wants to stay at Rangers but he is one who might be part of Michael Beale’s summer cull.
The 29-year old midfielder was, last season, the best on earth, however, things this season haven’t quite gone to plan.
After signing on a free transfer under Steven Gerrard, John Lundstram has had a roller coaster time for Rangers but his latest Old Firm display suggests his time might not quite be done.
Reports of a big salary, £22,000 per week according to Salary Sport, hasn’t helped his cause though.
We all know what sort of display Lundstram is capable of.
MORE RANGERS STORIES
Key displays in the Europa League and against Celtic show that he can contribute but this season he just hasn’t been able to replicate his best form.
A series of injuries have restricted his training but it has been the introduction of Nicolas Raskin and Todd Cantwell to midfield that has seen the scouser look more like his old self.
With Ryan Jack covering, Lundstram was much more aggressive against Celtic and, alongside Cantwell and Raskin, never gave their midfield a moment’s peace.
John Lundstram numbers point to Rangers lifeline
His numbers for the afternoon were impressive; 7/10 duels won, six tackles made, two blocked shots and one interception.
On top of this he fired three attempts at goal with one leading to the opener following Joe Hart’s save.
This is exactly the sort of all-action display that Lundstram needs to put in more consistently if he is to remain part of Michael Beale’s plans and earn a new contract after recent reports.
The sideways passing, too many touches version is not one that will be good enough to take us to the next level.
Rangers are said to be close to announcing a deal for Kieran Dowell with Ryan Jack also said to be an imminent contract extension, space in midfield is getting cramped.
If Lundstram continues to show what he did at Ibrox at the weekend then there is no reason why he shouldn’t keep his place, if not, with just a year left on his contract, any decent offer should be accepted.