Todd Cantwell quickly became a fans’ favourite for Rangers last season despite only being at the club for a handful of months.
An all-action midfielder with plenty of skill is always warmly appreciated at Ibrox and there was no surprise to see the 25-year old be quickly taken to heart.
Starting off in a deeper midfield role when he arrived from Norwich City, Michael Beale’s team selection against Newcastle United suggests that Todd Cantwell could be seen in a more advanced or free role this campaign for Rangers.
Todd Cantwell Rangers role hint after Ibrox showing
Operating in behind Abdallah Sima and Sam Lammers, Todd Cantwell was given the freedom of Ibrox rather than being restricted by excessive defensive duties in Rangers midfield.
When Malik Tillman’s season was ended due to injury, the Gers gaffer moved the playmaker further forward and to good effect.
In particular, his display against Celtic demonstrated perfectly what he is capable of if he doesn’t have to do the same box to box miles.
The base in midfield saw Ryan Jack supported by John Lundstram and Kieran Dowell in what looks like the sort of system Beale will use against better opposition.
The only problem was that Todd Cantwell didn’t get any decent ball other than linking up with his former Canaries teammate a few times.
The pace and energy of Nicolas Raskin was missed though and Jose Cifuentes will take this up a notch too, if he eventually arrives.
Todd Cantwell, who was once the subject of £15m bid from Leeds United, gives Rangers the luxury of being equally as good in a number of positions but if we have a fully fit squad, he shouldn’t be needed in a deeper role.
The only time he should be is when we are going to dominate possession and can pick a more aggressive front three.
Todd Cantwell will be pivotal if Rangers are to get to where they want to be this season wherever he plays but, Beale’s first selection suggests that he is going to be trusted with the key to unlock opposition defences.
