Ryan Kent’s return would’ve seen many expect him to jump back into his slot down the left.
Unfortunately for the on-loan Liverpool man, he has plenty of competition ahead of him now. Both Eros Grezda and Glenn Middleton have been impressing during the absence of the youngster in recent times.
Granted, Grezda is naturally a right-winger, and scored his first brace for the club in that position. He’s Daniel Candeias’ only real opposition for the right-midfield slot at the moment, until some strengthening is done in January.
What the Albanian proved on Sunday, however, is that he’s more than cut out for deputising on the left. Grezda put in his most dangerous display of the season yet at Tynecastle.
Meanwhile, however, Middleton has also been seriously impressing in that same position. This was supposed to be a breakthrough season for the former Norwich City kid, and it’s proving to be more than just that.
Since Kent picked up his hamstring injury, Middleton has managed four appearances and two goals of his own in Kent’s position. His displays have seriously excited both Steven Gerrard and the Rangers support.
No more lack of competition
When Jamie Murphy was sidelined at the start of the season, many were concerned at the lack of competition. Outside of Kent, there wasn’t anyone of any real credibility who could’ve stepped up.
Fortunately for Rangers, however, they’ve found some real talent in both Middleton and Grezda to push Kent when he returns. An immediate return to the starting line-up now doesn’t look as likely as it previously did for the Liverpool starlet.
Competition for places has been hotting up all over the pitch. From centre-back right up to the battle between Kyle Lafferty and Alfredo Morelos, Rangers finally have the manpower to deal with injury set-backs.
The likes of Borna Barisic, Kent, Murphy, and Candeias have spent time out of the squad this season. Despite that, however, Rangers have had the strength in depth to keep results on a positive trajectory.
When Kent was injured, everyone was wishing for him to make a quick return. Whilst that’s still the case, there’s no need to rush his recovery as things stand.
Able deputies are available in Middleton and Grezda, and Kent will have to seriously perform to feature on a weekly-basis.
