Scott Arfield’s performances at Ibrox haven’t brought too much criticism, but Steven Gerrard clearly isn’t too happy with them.
The Canadian midfielder signed for Rangers on a free transfer from Burnley in the summer. It was one of the signings of the pre-season for Rangers, and many were delighted with his signature.
So far, Arfield has been one of the mainstays in the Gerrard revolution. He’s made a terrific 20 appearances this season in all competitions. If it wasn’t for the fact he picked up a nasty knock on international duty last month, it would’ve been more.
The former Falkirk and Burnley star has managed to nab three goals and four assists during those outings this term. For Gerrard, however, that clearly isn’t enough as he claims that he wants a natural number 10.
“We’ve got creative players here like Scott Arfield, Ovie Ejaria or Daniel Candeias. But what we haven’t got is a natural number 10. Someone who is automatically described as a number 10 and that’s his job on the pitch.
“So maybe that’s an area we might look at. In the meantime, it’s up to every player selected in those forward positions to deliver.”
Read between the lines
Gerrard is obviously going to defend his player, and rightly so. But it’s difficult to read this in any other way than that he isn’t overly-impressed with what Arfield’s providing going forward.
Recently, the Canadian had stepped up to the plate well. Over the last few matches, however, his performances have dipped.
Let’s also not kid ourselves. Arfield’s position is the number 10. He does his fair share of tracking back, but going forward, the onus is on him to create from the central position. Is he doing that as often as Gerrard would like? Probably not.
He still remains a vital part of Gerrard’s group. Arfield’s determination is second to none in the squad, but he hasn’t been overly-impressive when you take into account his performances overall.
Many have admitted that Rangers need something better going forward. Their displays in the final third, outside of Spartak Moscow, have been woeful recently. Some fresh legs could be just what’s required to get Rangers clicking again.
One thing’s for sure, however, and that’s that Arfield should be wary of his position in the team.
