Rangers striker Cedric Itten is likely to be handed another start against Kilmarnock this weekend despite his disappointing showing at Hamilton on Sunday.
Many supporters were delighted when Itten was named in the Gers starting XI at the Fountain of Youth Stadium following his impressive contributions as a substitute in recent weeks.
However, he didn’t manage to make the most of his chance to lead the line.
The Switzerland international was involved in some bright link-up play and saw a well-struck shot deflected wide in the first half but although he wasn’t provided with great service, he gave away too many fouls and didn’t manage to stamp his authority on the game.
Itten was replaced by Kemar Roofe in the 66th minute with the score at 0-0 and his blank ensured he has still only scored against Motherwell in the Premiership.
Another big opportunity is likely to be just around the corner, though, with Kilmarnock travelling to Ibrox on Saturday.
Two of the 24-year-old’s three Premiership starts have come against Killie and there’s every chance he could be named in the XI once again at the weekend.
First-choice no.9 Alfredo Morelos is suspended for the game, while Jermain Defoe is only likely to be fit enough to be amongst the subs after missing the last three league fixtures with a calf problem.
That leaves only Itten and Roofe as candidates to lead the line but unless the latter manages to have his notice of complaint for violent conduct overturned at a hearing on Tuesday, he will also be out of contention.
Therefore, it’s likely that the former St Gallen star will make back-to-back starts for Rangers for the first time.
With the Gers only managing three goals in their last three league matches, the pressure will be on for Itten to produce the goods and if he doesn’t, another spell on the bench is likely to follow.
Rangers are reportedly keen to bring in a prolific striker in the summer and the sporting director of a European club has provided an update on the status of their target.
