Kris Boyd has now raised concerns over Ben Davies’ future with Rangers following his recent struggles at Ibrox under manager Michael Beale.
Rangers paid Liverpool £4m to sign Davies on a four-year contract to reinforce Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s squad in July 2022.
The 27-year-old has proven to be an important part of the Gers’ defence since his arrival at Ibrox. Davies has played in 36 games so far this season.
Davies has left Boyd underwhelmed over Rangers’ recent run
Davies has even played in each of Rangers’ Premiership fixtures under Beale since the league campaign resumed in December.
But Davies has left Rangers legend Boyd feeling underwhelmed of late having been ‘bullied’ by the Gers’ recent opponents.
Now, Boyd has raised doubts over Davies lasting at Ibrox if he cannot build his confidence.
“Ben Davies has not exactly covered himself in glory recently, with John Souttar looking the most assured Rangers defender,” Boyd wrote in his column for The Scottish Sun.
“The former Liverpool man looks devoid of confidence and has allowed himself to be bullied by opposition strikers.
“Weak centre-halves are never going to cut the mustard at Ibrox. You need to have a presence. Clear your lines and then ask questions later.”
Davies has given Boyd cause for concern
A mistake from Davies contributed to Rangers losing the last Old Firm derby against Celtic on April 8.
The defender spooned the ball into the air inside the Gers’ box before failing to win a header with Kyogo Furuhashi then scoring.
Kyogo had already scored after getting the better of Davies, as well. While Davies also made a number of mistakes next time out against St Mirren.
Davies never looked confident on the ball and St Mirren sought to take advantage of his lack of belief.
The Buddies’ forwards also had the edge on him in most of their physical battles.
Beale continued to back Davies against Aberdeen last time out but Rangers were not a firm defensive unit with him.
So, Davies has certainly given Boyd cause for concern having not given Rangers much belief in recent weeks.
Beale will hope his continued backing gives Davies enough confidence to turn his recent run around for Rangers, however.
The Gers boss clearly trusts Davies to perform for the Ibrox natives.
Beale has started the 27-year-old in 16 of Rangers’ 18 Premiership games since he replaced Van Bronckhorst.
