After a terrific display in a reserve clash, Umar Sadiq notched two goals against St Mirren in a 5-1 rout.
It was a terrific performance from the Gers reserves, with Sadiq’s brace putting the icing on the cake as he scored the first and last goals.
Added to that, the on-loan Roma man had a hand in two other goals throughout the rout.
Andy Dallas also bagged a brace, with Serge Atakayi notching the other.
Umar’s time
Sadiq has had a tough time of it so far at Rangers. Despite being signed to much hype on a loan deal from Serie A side Roma, the big forward has struggled to make any impact since arriving in Glasgow.
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Alfredo Morelos and Kyle Lafferty have been occupying the striking roles in the last couple of matches. However, this breakout performance from Sadiq is a timely reminder to Steven Gerrard about what his third-choice is all about.
This may finally signal the kick-start Sadiq has desperately needed since arriving in the summer. It has felt as though Lafferty may not have been signed had Sadiq made more of an early impact. Yet, now could finally be the time the supporters start to see what their Nigerian front-man can do.
Interestingly, Sadiq also nicked a goal on his debut against Wigan Athletic in a friendly outing. Supporters were impressed at the time with what he offered, but hasn’t had a look-in since.
Crunch games
With huge crunch matches against FC Ufa and Celtic this week, it would be a huge surprise if Sadiq made an appearance anytime soon Therefore, it’s important for the summer signing to continue impressing at reserve level and continue showing he’s a class above that.
It will also be interesting to see how the likes of Atakayi come on this season also. Gerrard has shown a desire to give youth a chance in his early days at the club, with Glenn Middleton making a handful of appearances.
Overall though, this has to be chalked up as a terrific day for Sadiq.