It appears that Rangers’ squad depth may be even more talented than we first realised.
The performance against Ayr United was terrific and full-throttle. That’s something we’ve come to expect from a Steven Gerrard Rangers side this season, but only with the regular starting XI.
Last night, the likes of Glenn Middleton, Joe Worrall, and even young Stephen Kelly didn’t look out of place. Added to that, Eros Grezda, Jordan Rossiter, and Ross McCrorie all made appearances.
Jon Flanagan and Wes Foderingham aren’t first-team choices, whilst Graham Dorrans made his starting return.
Indeed, squad competition is at its all-time high in recent years at Ibrox. It’s not just about the numbers, however, as Gerrard has a group of genuinely talented stars not even in the starting XI.
For a team in Scotland to battle on all fronts, including Europe, you need strength in depth. Having a strong starting XI and a decent few subs is all well and good, but it’s quality you need all over the squad.
Ready-made replacements
At this stage, five or six of Gerrard’s first-team stars could get injured and there would be a ready-made replacement available. If Alfredo Morelos is out, Kyle Lafferty is there. If Ovie Ejaria and Lassana Coulibaly are out, then there’s Ryan Jack and Graham Dorrans. Should Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic have knocks? Up would step Joe Worrall and Gareth McAuley.
This is as competitive a period as there’s been in some time at Ibrox. If individuals don’t perform in this side, then there’s a strong chance they’ll bedropped and struggle to get back in. It’s of vital importance that Gerrard has that kind of hunger from the bench and the reserves, and it’ll keep the first-teamers on their toes.
The side will only get better as the season goes on also. A raft of summer signings have been brought in to the club, and they’re still gelling. No squad with an overhaul like Rangers’ are playing at their premium a month or two down the line.
Matches such as Ayr United give supporters a good glimpse as to what’s waiting in reserve. It’s a chance for fringe-players to show what they can do and put themselves into contention. Last night, they did that and then some.
The regular starting XI will be put back in place when Rangers travel to Livingston on Sunday. Rangers fans will now know, however, that they have the quality to challenge on all fronts this season.
