Rangers defender Connor Goldson’s future at Ibrox remains up in the air as he enters the final six weeks of his contract with the Light Blues – and if the big Englishman doesn’t realise what he’s got at Ibrox, he’s going to be in for a big surprise if he decides to move on.
Having already won the title last season – and everything that went along with it – the past week has been a massive one for the Light Blues after booking a Europa League semi-final spot and beating Celtic at Hampden on Sunday.
The defender has been pictured soaking up the atmosphere after both momentous wins as he continues to mull over his next steps.
Understandable that Goldson is taking his time
At age 29, Goldson has a huge decision to make this summer.
Wherever he ends up, this is likely to be his last major contract and if he has designs on proving he can cut it in England’s Premier League, this summer is almost certainly the final chance he’ll have to make that leap.
A return to England would no doubt see his bank balance boosted considerably but, given he’s among the highest earners at Rangers, it doesn’t seem that money will be that big a motivator in his decision.
However, after his brief stint in the PL with Brighton, it’s understandable if he feels he still has something to prove in England’s top tier.
Both sides won’t know what they have until it’s gone
As a Rangers fan, I’m probably biased in saying this, but if Goldson does move on, he’s quickly going to realise the grass isn’t always greener.
There can’t be any blame put on him if he decides to bet on himself and head down south – but, there’s little chance he’s going to go somewhere he can challenge for trophies every season and push in Europe.
Going back over the last 25 or 30 years, there aren’t many who leave Rangers and go on to bigger and better things – Rino Gattuso and Gio van Bronckhorst are two of a very short list immediately springing to mind.
The same rings true for us fans too though.
If Goldson does leave, Rangers face a hell of a job replacing him this summer.
With Leon Balogun out of contract, Fil Helander seemingly made of plasticine and John Souttar a magnet for Achilles’ injuries, Goldson’s constant availability is remarkable.
215 appearances from a possible 226 games is incredible and when you consider there were concerns over his previous heart surgery, it makes it all the more outrageous.
Rangers must do everything to try keep Goldson at Ibrox
Despite being in the final weeks of his contract, there are no suggestions that Goldson has signed a pre-contract elsewhere – and that should prompt Rangers to do everything in the club’s power to keep him.
A new deal might be thrashed out over the summer and see him extend his stay at the club and, if he does, he’s got a real chance at making himself a bona fide Ibrox legend.
Is it really worth trading all that in for mid-table in the Premier League and the odd shot at a place in Europe?
There are plenty of examples to suggest not, but only Goldson can make the decision over his future.
However, if he does move on, there’s going to always be that question of ‘what if’ that lingers – for both the player and the club.
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