As we roll into the international break, you’ll be hard-pressed to find many Rangers fans who’re interested in the excursions of the Scotland national team.
It’s perhaps a sign of the times. For me, I always have fond memories of watching Scotland with my grandfather. Now, there’s a developing friction between Rangers and the rest. It feels isolating, and both sides probably have a responsibility to bear for it.
Politics and football are a caustic mix at the best of times. But on the pitch, Rangers’ only representative in the Scotland squad has chosen to bow out.
Allan McGregor, for whatever reason, has decided to hang up his Scotland gloves. Much to the disappoinment of those in the national team set-up. That now means there are no Rangers players in the Scotland 27.
Should Rangers have more representatives in Scotland squad?
To put that into perspective, there are representatives from Celtic (5), Aberdeen (2), Kilmarnock, Hibs and Hearts. Rangers are widely considered to be the country’s Premier Club.
Yet, none of the Scottish players at the club are deemed good enough to play for the country. What does that say about the standard of player at Rangers?
For all the positive posturing around Ryan Jack, the likes of Graeme Shinnie and Barry Bannan are preferred to him. Rangers’ youngsters Ross McCrorie and Glenn Middleton still seem a while off breaking through.
Domestically, there continues to be players who Alex McLeish believes have more ability than those inside Ibrox. Dominant domestic sides also tend to dominate their domestic national sides. It’s a deficiency that this time of year seems to consistently highlight.
And probably why nabbing this rival captain isn’t a bad idea at all.
