After Jamie Murphy was ruled out for the season, will Steven Gerrard dip back into the transfer market?
The Rangers manager has confirmed that Murphy will be out for the rest of the season. It’s a huge blow to the club, with Murphy playing the majority of games since Gerrard arrived. His versatility on either wing has been invaluable to the success Rangers have had so early this season.
However, do Rangers now need cover in that area after this unexpected turn?
As it stands, Rangers only have Ryan Kent as recognised cover on the left-side. The on-loan Liverpool man has impressed in his few appearances so far. Yet he’s still to really have a breakout performance in light blue.
Supporters can also point to Glenn Middleton as potential back-up. This is true, but Gerrard has yet to show much faith in the former Norwich youth player.
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Middleton deserves short-term chance
Despite his obvious qualities, it would be surprising to see Middleton play consistently at just 18 years of age and with no previous first-team experience.
As a short-term option, he would’ve deserved the opportunity. However, to rely on him as a key man for the rest of the campaign would be dangerous given his inexperience.
Game-time is a must at some stage this season for the youngster, who can play on either wing. The problem is that Middleton also provides cover for Daniel Candeias down the right also He would be more expected to filter in that position whilst Gerrard sticks his trust in Kent.
Jordan Jones is a constant menace against Rangers, and could be a viable option. The Northern Ireland international created Killie’s goal against the Gers at Rugby Park at the weekend.
He would provide a directness and dribbling ability that would certainly cover what Murphy offers. Some supporters have also given Gerrard the go-ahead to sanction that one.
Gerrard’s targets
Gerrard has always said that he only needed a striker and a centre-back in recent weeks. With Kyle Lafferty having been brought in from Hearts, that leaves just a defender left on the check-list.
However, surely the Gers manager is having second thoughts about his cover down the left. Other than Middleton, Rangers don’t have another viable winger available to cover for the loss of Murphy.
It’s now down to Gerrard to rectify that before the end of August. A title-challenge requires squad depth all over the pitch. In order for Rangers to have that, one more adjustment needs made.