Steven Davis has completed another 90 minutes for Northern Ireland as they defeated Belarus 2-1 at Windsor Park thanks to a late Josh Magennis winner.
More than that, Davis was once again absolutely superb. The deep-lying driving force of the team, he’s the pivot of Michael O’Neill’s tactics and the leader of the side. His performance in the 2-0 win over Estonia last week was also a highlight of this international break. He even got on the scoresheet in that one with a penalty.
But with such glowing performances for Northern Ireland, Davis must now step up at Ibrox. And after playing 180 minutes at a very high level, fitness can no longer be used as an excuse.
The on-loan Southampton midfielder and former Gers captain has been a massive let down since joining in January. He has done little to stop the rot as Rangers have collapsed in the second half of this season.
His signing, and that of Jermain Defoe, was supposed to ignite in a title challenge. Instead, it’s ignited very little. Davis has been that poor.
Now, he’s playing for a contract at the club and the chance to stick around at Ibrox full-time. How does he achieve that? It’s simple. Just do what he does for Northern Ireland with Rangers.
His leadership and creativity are exactly what’s lacking from the Rangers midfield. He must bring his international form back to Govan with him. Time is running out and his Rangers future could depend on it.
