Steven Gerrard reinstated centre-back, Gareth McAuley, to the Rangers’ starting line-up this evening.
His inclusion will have been welcomed by many, after Joe Worrall’s dreadful performance at Dundee.
However, McAuley didn’t deliver the strong performance many expected.
There were decisive clearance headers and the odd decent block. Yet, overall, the veteran looked shaky.
Is age catching up with him?
The Northern Irish international turned 39 ahead of last week’s defeat to Aberdeen. Regardless of form, it is a testament to his professionalism that he is still able to compete at all.
However, since his return from injury, he has looked half a yard off the pace and uncertain in possession. These same issues were apparent against Rapid.
Perhaps it is a sign that his powers are finally on the decline.
He gave away needless free-kicks in wide areas and on several occasions, errand passes almost gifted opposition forwards a straight route to goal.
His teammate, Goldson, bailed him out on those occasions. Yet, it was most uncharacteristic from a player who has built his reputation on solidity.
You don’t accumulate 200 Premier League appearances if you aren’t a class act. However, it’s worrying that McAuley still can’t rediscover his best form at Rangers.
Let’s hope this is just a blip and not the permanent decline of an outstanding defender.
