The return of Tom Lawrence has been a welcome one in the Rangers line-up, not only is his experience invaluable but so to is his quality.
The 29-year old looked to be a quality addition by Giovanni van Bronckhorst on a free transfer only to see him miss almost the whole season following a series of injury problems, starting with a knee complaint over a year ago.
Now though, Tom Lawrence is approaching full fitness and, in a deeper role at Ibrox against St Mirren showed that he could be the answer to Rangers midfield problems in Nicolas Raskin’s absence.
Tom Lawrence reflects on new Rangers role
When asked about being deployed in a double pivot with John Lundstram, the Wales international said:
“It was a little bit deeper than I have been used to in the past. But the manager asked me to do it and I had done it a few times at Derby so I was more than capable.
“I know the role and it was really enjoyable actually. We always aim to have a high tempo in the game. I actually felt that we did it well on Sunday. I don’t know how the manager saw it from the side, but he was happy in the changing room after the game, that’s the main thing.”
The fundamental quality that Tom Lawrence brings to the Rangers squad is that he is a good footballer.
That might sound a little simplistic but he does all the basics well.
He can play his way out of pressure either by carrying the ball or by passing, he plays with his head up facing forwards and always looks to set up attacks.
What he also offers is that he is still capable of joining attacks and running past the forward line to make something happen or get shots off himself.
Tom Lawrence has been a welcome sight in a Rangers jersey for Philippe Clement, all we need to hope now is that he can keep himself fit.
