Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has dropped a future selection hint with big praise for Cedric Itten following his strong substitute showing against Motherwell [RangersTV].
Itten has struggled for game time in recent weeks, featuring for just 21 minutes across five Premiership matches prior to the trip to Fir Park.
However, he looked sharp after replacing Ianis Hagi in the second half on Sunday afternoon and his powerful header from a Borna Barisic cross in the 72nd minute ensured that his side remain unbeaten in the league this season.
Itten has only started twice in the Premiership since his arrival from St Gallen in August, but Gerrard has hinted that the striker might add to that tally in the coming weeks.
“I think Cedric epitomised what we were trying to do in the second half,” said the Rangers manager [RangersTV]. “He was aggressive out of possession, he worked his socks off, he showed quality and he does what he does and that’s score important goals. That’s the reason why we brought him in.”
“I’m really pleased for him and he’s pushing for a starting place. We’ll see what happens moving forward but I’m really pleased for the kid. We’re delighted to have him and he’s only going to get better and better.
“He’s a development one, we need to be patient with him. But I’ve got no doubts that in the long-term he’s going to be a fantastic player for this club. He got us a point today.”
Rangers failed to take advantage of Celtic’s slip-up at home to Livingston on Saturday afternoon, but the draw still restored their 21 point lead at the top of the table.
The Gers will be hoping to get back to winning ways when they take on Ross County at Ibrox next Saturday before they finish the month with a trip to Easter Road.
Here are our Player Ratings from the Fir Park clash.
