Steven Gerrard has laid down a challenge to one of his many summer signings, as quoted by the Evening Times, ahead of Sunday’s clash with Hibernian.
Jordan Jones was handed a surprise start against FC Midtjylland on Thursday night, and impressed in the 4-2 away victory.
His pace proved extremely effective on the counter-attack and he stuck to his task against a stubborn right-back.
Gerrard challenges Rangers winger Jones
The Northern Ireland international impressed his manager, but he now wants that sort of impact more regularly from the self-assured winger.
“I don’t think he’s cocky, he’s confident,” said Gerrard, as quoted by the Evening Times. “When we are tracking these players one of the key things is what are they like in big games.”
“Jordan did damage to us when he played for Kilmarnock just after the winter break last season. The challenge for him now is what is next. Is that going to come every ten games or is he going to do it more consistently?”
Verdict
It remains to be seen whether or not Jones will feature from the start against Hibs. We’ve predicted that despite his impressive showing in Denmark, he will drop out.
There’s no doubt he should be an important asset for the Gers as the season goes on, though. Thursday night revealed he has what it takes to help Gerrard’s side win games.
He’s far from the finished article right now, though. His decision-making and end product are two obvious areas for improvement and once he elevates his game in those departments, he’s much more likely to nail down a starting berth.
