Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has predicted that Jon Flanagan is ready to make a big impact in 2020, as quoted by the Glasgow Times.
With James Tavenier out following a minor procedure to resolve an appendix problem, the Gers right-back slot is currently there for the taking.
After his recent comments on Nathan Patterson [Scotsman], it doesn’t look likely that the 18-year-old will be filling it.
Therefore, it seems it’s a straight fight between Flanagan and Matt Polster, with the former Liverpool man apparently champing at the bit.
“Jon’s in the best shape I’ve seen him this season in terms of how he’s looking,” said Gerrard, as quoted by the Glasgow Times.
“He came over to Dubai absolutely flying. He trained right through the winter camp and he’s obviously trying to earn a contract here. So I’ve got no doubts that Jon will be waiting in the wings and desperate to play.
“We’ve got a game now every three or four days, right through to the next international break. So there’s plenty of football there and I know Jon’s ready. I had a chat with him yesterday and I can see it in his eyes that he’s ready.”
Verdict
It’s encouraging to hear these words from the manager, as the Gers really need someone to step up to the plate in the captain’s absence.
Although he had a wobble for a period, Tavernier was influential over the first half of the season, registering 12 assists in all competitions and by the time the winter break came around, he was defending very solidly.
It’s a given that Rangers won’t have the same of level attacking threat down the right flank with him out of the side. Yet, Gerrard will be looking for someone to step in and be defensively sound first and foremost, before doing what they can in the final third.
Flanagan struggled in his most recent outing against Aberdeen, and the team’s style of play often has to change when he is included due to his limitations in attack.
However, hopefully, given that he has a good mid-season camp behind him and is moving across to a more natural position, he’ll bring more to the table over the coming weeks.
This is a rare opening and if the 27-year-old wants to be at Ibrox next season, he needs to take it.
