Daniel Candeias’ crossing has to improve if he’s to become a great Rangers winger.
Once again in the Betfred Cup semi-final, Candeias put in a ton of effort. There’s really no player in Rangers squad who works harder than the feisty Spaniard.
He runs himself into the ground on a consistent basis, and gives opposition players no time on the ball. There were a few occasions when the ball just bounced off Candeias as he charged down to block clearances. He really is one of the hardest workers many will remember in a Rangers shirt.
Unfortunately, his quality when in dangerous positions just isn’t up to scratch. That was shown against Spartak Moscow last Thursday, and it was shown again tonight. Added to that, it’s been shown on countless occasions this season.
How many times have you personally been frustrated as a Rangers fan when Candeias bursts down the right and hits the first-man? It’s happening far too often, and it’s time to get him on the training field to improve it.
Could have it all
Candeias, for all of his attributes, should have it all. He’s got lightning speed, good ball control, and an attitude second to none in this Rangers squad. He could be a phenomenal player, but instead remains a good player.
Credit to him for making his mark in Steven Gerrard’s squad this season. The arrival of Eros Grezda really should’ve had him dropped from the team altogether. Instead, the Portuguese terrier has been dogged, and refused to let his spot go.
In order for him to keep it, however, he has to keep improving. Despite the fact that Rangers get so much from the winger, they could also get so much more.
If Candeias had the crossing skills of a James Tavernier, for example, he would be an utterly sensational footballer. Unfortunately he’s never had that since arriving at Ibrox last season, and hasn’t improved upon it either.
If you look at the matches Rangers have lost this season domestically. Celtic, Livingston, and now Aberdeen. All of those matches have had incidents where Candeias has burst away down the right and put in a woeful cross. He could be vital for Rangers, and not just decent.
He deserves praise for so much hard work tonight against the Dons. Hopefully in the future we now start to see some genuine improvements in his game.
