In recent weeks there’s been a real debate amongst Rangers fans over whether Connor Goldson or Nikola Katic should be the club’s primary centre half.
There was even the suggestion that Goldson might make way instead of Katic for Filip Helander, but the opposite has been the case in the last few matches.
In standard Goldson style, the big defender emphatically answered his critics with a commanding display against St. Johnstone and a powerfully headed goal in the 4-0 win.
And yet, there are still detractors in the camp.
The big defender – who’s almost guaranteed position in the Ibrox first XI shows just how highly Steven Gerrard relies on him – continues to come in for criticism.
https://twitter.com/OhItsSteely/status/1175715422844477440
https://twitter.com/TheIanFerg/status/1175715819315245061
https://twitter.com/CAMYMCCO/status/1175740618565464067
https://twitter.com/IanDurrant9/status/1176028655392362496
Someone who gave up the promise of Premier League football to be a starter for Rangers under Steven Gerrard, there’s a real disconnect between fans and what Goldson actually brings to the team.
He’s our defensive marshal, an outlet on the ball, and – whilst at times he could be accused of being shaky – is central to what Steven Gerrard is trying to achieve.
The fact he plays so much is the biggest testament to that.
Interestingly, a wave of Rangers fans have jumped to the big defender’s defence, as if to return those favours he does for us week in, week out.
https://twitter.com/muggy_mcguire/status/1175841581104074757
https://twitter.com/forzapapac_/status/1175750479588089856
https://twitter.com/Snagsy1980/status/1175725829155950594
https://twitter.com/Cjnovo992/status/1175748772711862277
https://twitter.com/GregBrucex/status/1174741691561103360
https://twitter.com/Rt_415/status/1176049128289316865
https://twitter.com/TheRailwayBears/status/1176027360287711232
With some fans are emotionally attached to Niko Katic and his passionate displays, it makes you think this could well be putting blinkers on when it comes to the Croatian’s development.
The love-in for Katic is another reason why Goldson has been on the receiving end from some quarters.
Every mistake of the Englishman’s is analysed and derided with some supporters feeling this is justification enough to see Katic reinstated.
But the Croatian U21 international is far from the finished product and will continue to be used sparingly by the club.
Connor Goldson on the other hand is a reliable, consistent force in the Rangers backline and deserves more praise and respect from some supporters.
As an aside – here’s the truth behind those ridiculous reports of a bust-up between Goldson and Nikola Katic.
