Strange things can happen when players pull on a Rangers shirt in that some rise to the challenge, whilst others wilt under the pressure.
This is one of the reasons why Nils Koppen’s job is so hard. A sure thing, a risk-free signing, simply doesn’t exist, especially when you consider the struggles of Robin Propper – an experienced club captain with a solid reputation in a good league.
It is also a reason why so many players leave Rangers and go on to prove that the ability was there all along, as perfectly demonstrated by Umar Sadiq.
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Umar Sadiq hits the headlines after flop Rangers spell
Sadiq has been the subject of nearly £30m worth of transfer fees since returning to Roma early from his failed loan spell at Rangers in 2018 where he played just 116 minutes, including the infamous league cup semi-final against Aberdeen.
A £17m move to Real Sociedad hasn’t quite gone to plan though.
Prior to the game against Aberdeen where Sadiq dived instead of slotting into an empty net at 1-0 down, Steven Gerrard explained why a player who is now in La Liga, had barely been seen:
“I think everybody at Rangers has done everything they can and the fans have got behind him,” Gerrard said.
“It can’t just be given to you, not at a club like this. So, it’s over to Umar, the ball is in his court.
“The semi-final is a fantastic opportunity but just because he is the one of the number nines we have got and two are not available, it doesn’t mean he is going to feature. You have to earn the right.”
Sadiq scores worldie to seal point for Valencia
Now on loan from Real Sociedad at Valencia – who have an option to buy the towering striker – Sadiq has been impressing, scoring twice against Osasuna including an audacious equaliser.
A back heel flick into the far corner left the keeper with no chance and is the latest example of his finishing prowess.
At Partizan Belgrade, Sadiq had 41 goal contributions in 53 games immediately after leaving Rangers, at UD Almeria he accumulated 56 in 84.
These are the sort of numbers that Nils Koppen will be looking for in the summer if he is targeting another striker.
Not that it guarantees anything when they pull on a Rangers shirt that is.
