Rangers star John Lundstram endured a tough start to his Ibrox career with a red card in Champions League qualifying then a woeful performance away to Dundee United as the Gers’ unbeaten record came to an end at the start of the season – but now he needs to be central to any Ibrox rebuild.
Lundstram took until the start of 2022 to really find his feet at Ibrox and show why Steven Gerrard was so keen to see the Scouser swap Sheffield United for Rangers.
Even as recently as January, Lundstram looked dead in the water as a Rangers player with rumours of an imminent loan exit coming as a surprise to nobody at the time.
However, since then he has emerged as the midfield linchpin for Gio van Bronckhorst’s side and the driving force in pushing the side along.
Summer rebuild at Rangers seems almost certain
With van Bronckhorst taking charge of his first pre-season at Rangers, there’s almost certain the be a sizeable player turnover with contracts ending, players retiring and some sold to make way for new faces.
One that simply cannot be allowed to go anywhere is Lundstram.
His importance to the side now is such that, if push comes to shove and it’s a choice between Lundstram or Ryan Jack, there’s only one winner.
Lundstram deserves support in midfield for Rangers
While the Light Blues haven’t had their troubles to seek with injuries, it’s clear the likes of Scott Arfield and Steven Davis are past their best.
Ryan Jack still has a key role to play but possible transfer exits for Glen Kamara and Joe Aribo in the summer could see a new-look engine room next season.
After his performances over the last few months, Lundstram deserves to have midfield partners who can make the same sort of impact he has.