Rangers will be coming up against a friendly face on Wednesday night – former midfield star Emerson Hyndman.
For those who don’t remember, or maybe don’t want to remember, Hyndman was one of Mark Warburton’s final signings for the club. He arrived at Ibrox in January 2017 before leaving in May with good wishes from Gers fans.
It wasn’t particularly a successful spell for him. The club were still in a period of turmoil, and despite only being at the club for four months or so, he still played under three different managers.
He’ll perhaps mostly be remembered for his stunning half-volley at Tynecastle in the 4-1 loss at Hearts. Or, if you really remember well, his shot that stung the palms of Craig Gordon and allowed Clint Hill to bag that famous equaliser at Parkhead.
In total, Hyndman appeared on 17 occasions for the club whilst on-loan from Bournemouth. His association with the Rangers supporters was a good one. Despite that, however, it was almost a case of the right man at the wrong time for both himself and the club.
Pedro Caixinha’s summer “revolution” didn’t see Hyndman feature in his plans. That meant he went back down south and once again struggled to get himself noticed in the English Premier League.
Times have changed
Now, however, he’s back and looking to inflict some pain on the club he spent a short period on-loan for.
Hyndman is going to be a seriously dangerous customer on Wednesday night for Hibs. Rangers’ midfield bossed the game with ease against Hamilton, but they’ll have a test against the American at Easter Road.
His energy on Sunday played a key part in downing Celtic. He was putting a high press on Brendan Rodgers’ men, and Celtic folded with ease. Rangers have to be wary of the constant harrying and exploisveness to his game these days.
It’s fair to say he’s probably a better player now than the one Rangers had on loan back in 2017. He’s more mature, fit, and dangerous going forward.
Hyndman is at a team that suits his energetic style. Neil Lennon appears to be getting the best out of him in recent matches, and Rangers can’t take him lightly.
Credit must go to him for bringing his name back into relevance up here. He certainly took a few dents during his time in Glasgow, but gave his all and was a productive customer for Rangers.
Unfortunately for Hyndman and Rangers, it just wasn’t the right time for the pair to join up. Now, the club have to make sure he doesn’t become a serious thorn in their side over the next week.
