Lee Wallace’s future was certainly called into question last week, but he’s made his first appearance since then earlier today.
Rangers hammered Kilmarnock 5-0 at the Hummel Training Centre this afternoon in a reserve clash, with several top-team stars in the mix. The likes of Borna Barisic, Nikola Katic, and Wallace were all in the side that mauled Killie.
Whilst the story of the game is likely to be Andy Dallas’ fine hat-trick, Wallace’s appearance was interesting.
Steven Gerrard told shareholders at last week’s AGM that he was “part of his plans”. Despite those comments, he also stated that there were “better options” than Wallace available.
There was certainly a contrast between certain things the Rangers manager had to say about his left-back. Wallace is definitely a capable performer with plenty of Scottish Premiership experience. The problem he has, however, is that the club have three left-backs ahead of him at the moment.
One of those is Barisic, who put in an impressive display this afternoon as he steps up his own recovery. His fight for a first-team slot, however, isn’t anywhere as daunting as the one Wallace has ahead of him.
Wallace wasn’t helped by his only appearance this season
The former Hearts man has only made one appearance for the top team this season. He came on seconds before Motherwell scored a last-minute equaliser at Fir Park back in August. The symbolism of that scenario was difficult to ignore for many.
Whilst Gerrard has kept the door open for Wallace to fight his way back into the team, it looks highly unlikely. The left-back is out of contract at the end of the season, and could easily push for a move in January. His experience and achievements in the game would also mean he has plenty of suitors in for him.
He’s featured regularly in these kind of friendly matches this season. He’s yet, however, to make the step up to consistent appearances in the first-team.
Rangers fans will likely be pleased to see their former captain back playing in some form of competitive football. But where does his Rangers future currently stand?
Are both Gerrard and Wallace just waiting for January to move him on? Is there really a clear way for him to come back to the first-team? Let us know what you think about Wallace’s Rangers future.
