Rangers maybe didn’t sign Michy “Batsman” Batshuayi, however, in Cyriel Dessers they seem to have the hero we deserve, not the one that we think we need.
Ok, Batman references aren’t for everyone, but you get the gist of the point with Gers boss Philippe Clement adding Fabio Silva to the squad as his striker options deteriorated and doubts about the big Nigerian’s ability to shoulder the goalscoring burden at Ibrox.
The turnaround in the Rangers forward’s fortunes have seen fans, slowly come around to Cyriel Dessers to the extent that the 29-year old was serenaded at Easter Road.
Rangers fans warm to Cyriel Dessers, at last
Since Clement arrived in Glasgow, there has been a noticeable improvement in Dessers’ form and numbers.
Has he been perfect? No.
In both the league cup final and Old Firm derby, he should have done better but this has to be balanced with the goal he score against Real Betis to secure top spot in Europa League group B.
With six goals and three assists in his last 11 league games since Clement was appointed, there is a suggestion that he could yet reach the type of figures needed to win the title.
Scoring with almost his first touch against Hibs to put the game to bed with a composed finish was a moment he clearly enjoyed with the feeling reciprocated by the support, who swiftly broke into a rendition of the Cockerel Chorus’ “Nice one Cyril” or in this case, “Cyriel”.
Originally a 1973 tribute to Spurs striker Cyril Knowles, even those who struggle with song lyrics might manage this one:
“Nice one Cyriel, nice one son.
“Number nine for Rangers.
“He’s scoring goals for fun.”
And, in fairness, he nearly did but for a smart stop from David Marshall.
Cyriel Dessers is a likeable player and seems to have integrated into the squad immediately, it might have taken a bit longer to gain such warmth from Rangers fans but, if he continues at his current rate, he’ll be a favourite in no time.
Maybe.
