In the Glasgow Evening Times, Derek Johnstone has predicted that Ryan Kent will make a big impact for Rangers after the international break.
The 22-year-old signed for the club for a whopping reported £7.5m on Deadline Day [Sky Sports], but Bears have barely seen him in action.
That’s because he picked up a hamstring injury against Livingston during his first outing back at Ibrox, which has seen him sidelined for the last six matches.
Rangers ambassador Johnstone predicts big Kent impact
“Rangers have scored 14 goals in their last three Premiership matches against St Johnstone, Aberdeen and Hamilton Accies and the side is carrying a real threat at this moment in time,” wrote Johnstone in the Glasgow Evening Times. “That will only increase once Ryan Kent is available after his hamstring injury and the fans will be desperate to see him back in action soon after the international break.”
“Kent will give Steven Gerrard another option in the final third and goals shouldn’t be in short supply for Rangers this term.”
Verdict
When Kent finally put pen to paper on a permanent contract late on deadline day, it looked like being a pivotal moment in Rangers’ season.
Immediately following a limp Old Firm defeat, he was regarded by many fans as someone who would bring much-needed cutting edge to the side.
However, in recent weeks, the squad has shown that they are capable of scoring goals and putting together a winning run without him.
Greg Stewart has shown what he can offer, Brandon Barker scored after replacing Kent against Livi and the two strikers, Morelos and Defoe, continue to excel.
Within that context, the imminent return of Kent is exciting. Given the form of others, he shouldn’t be under pressure to produce right away, but he’ll bring extra dynamism and flair to an already strong attacking unit.
It’s perhaps unlikely that Gerrard will risk him from the start away at Hearts after the break, but notwithstanding any potential setbacks, he’s surely likely to take a spot on the bench.
