One of the fundamental pillars that Rangers are looking to strengthen under Philippe Clement is the pathway for youth players.
The academy should be the backbone of the club, providing regular starters who can handle the expectations of a packed Ibrox as well as those who can supplement the squad and do a job when needed.
Mentality is almost as big an asset as talent when it comes to making it at Rangers and, having looked like he was in his last year as a B team player, Ross McCausland grabbed his chance and didn’t look back.
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Rangers winger Ross McCausland given international backing
The 21-year old has worked hard to improve his game and his well-taken goal against Malmo is the latest example of him taking the right steps.
Now a regular at international level, McCausland has been praised by Northern Ireland manager, Michael O’Neill, who thinks that the Gers winger can make a difference for his side, as reported by Belfast Live:
“I think Ross is a player who impacts the game and has the capability to score as well. His minutes have predominantly come off the bench for Rangers this season. I’m sure he would wish he was starting more games but there is competition for places there.
“I think Ross has a lot to offer. He is still a young player and has had opportunities for us and when he came on against Luxembourg he was unlucky not to score and he had a good impact in Bulgaria as well.
“On a difficult pitch he showed real good moments on the ball. It’s just continued development for Ross at his club and when he comes away from us.”
McCausland still has a long way to go to be key Rangers player
McCausland still has a lot of learning to do.
There is no point in him coming off the bench, making an impact, and then offering nothing when he is given a chance from the start.
Wingers are there – especially in Clement’s system – to make a difference.
The Gers boss could get anyone to cut inside and play square passes or just keep possession for the sake of it.
Look at Vaclav Cerny against St Johnstone.
That is what a Rangers winger should be doing.
There is nothing wrong with being a hardworking, honest, professional footballer, but it McCausland wants to keep his place for club and country, he needs to be braver and more clinical.
It’s not always about scoring 20-yard screamers either, one thing that Rangers don’t do enough of is score simple tap-ins.
If McCausland can be more positive with his positioning, rather than recycling the ball at the back post, he could be adding to his numbers by getting on the end of crosses and cut-backs.
Add this to his game and McCausland will get his wish of starting more games.
