Could do better. No it’s not my report card from back at school I’ve found but the performances of the Rangers squad so far, with a quarter of the season gone, I have decided to publish my ratings for the players up to this stage.
In what, so far, has been another testing season for us, bears one again where we have been unwavering in our support for the side, throughout all the ups and downs. The one constant factor in it all has been the fans unbelievable backing.
The season started off badly, seeing any early season promise fade out, with a humiliating exit from Europe, a firm defeat, and a semi final loss to Motherwell in the League Cup. We have, again, failed to win three games in a row up until this point. Pedro Caixinha has come and gone and Murtymania has had as many twists and turns as WrestleMania. Hopefully, on Saturday we can grab that all-so-elusive 3rd win in a row using it as a platform to build upon for the remainder of the campaign.
After two largely impressive showings against Aberdeen in the last week, we find ourselves positioned in second place due to our superior goal difference. Seven points off the top spot, we can’t help but wonder what might have been if we had managed to secure wins from the disappointing results in the Hamilton and Dundee games.
Player Ratings
Wes Fodringham – 7
At times early in the season he was our best player suspect for a few goals but what keeper isn’t? Still, at times, puts his defenders in too many bad spots with his distribution for my liking. But, on the whole, can’t fault.
James Tavernier – 7
The last few games have seen Tav get back to his best I’ve felt, when driving with the ball and taking on the opposition but he’s still liable to go to sleep at the back post when defending.
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Declan John – 6
A player with very similar attributes to Tav: best in the opponents half, not the best with his back to goal. He chipped in with some goals and is dangerous with the ball at his feet.
Fabio Cardoso – 6
Started the season well at Fir Park but then faded and allowed himself to get bullied off forwards. Gives away too many needless free kicks in dangerous positions.
Lee Walace – 5
The Rangers skipper has been out injured most of the season so far and was well off his best when fit. Hopefully, he can get back to the level we know he is capable of.
Danny Wilson – 7
Pedro didn’t fancy him as a player it seemed but has really took on the mantle under Murty. I think most Rangers fans are pleasantly surprised at how improved his form has been.
Dalcio – 2
Hardly played, when he has, he’s looked slow and simply not good enough.
Ryan Jack – 8
Temped to rate him higher but temperament issues have plagued the midfielder. He’s very comfortable with the ball and always finds a pass. An impressive start so far overall I would say.
Kenny Miller – 5
Two goals against Hearts and a load of running about in areas he shouldn’t be. Looks like he’s nearing the end of his top level career.
Graham Dorrans – 7
Expected more from a player of his stature, got bullied in the old firm game, but has shown, in flashes, the talent he has – just a bit more consistency needed.
Josh Windass – 7
Great first game but toiled badly like so many after. The past few weeks he has shone and could be a big player going forward if he can maintain the level of performance displayed in both clashes with Aberdeen.
Eduardo Herrera – 4
Came with a price tag and has failed to deliver. Couldn’t even get a start with Morelos out injured and looks like a waste of money.
Lee Hodson – 4
Not of the quality required at Rangers I feel. Honest squad player, just lacks ability and has been badly exposed at times.
Niko Kranjcar -2
Done. If he were a horse he’d be put down. He slows the game up and wants too many touches. Can’t see much of a future at Ibrox as it shows why he was playing five-a-side football in America.
Alfredo Morelos – 9
Fantastic signing. Great bit of business. Needs a goal at the moment but he never stops or gives defenders peace and makes people around him better. A real find.
Daniel Candeias – 8
The boy can put in some ball. He gives us balance and work rate on the right hand side we lacked last year. Won’t hit the byline too often but doesn’t need to with his right foot.
Bruno Alves – 7
The big man is a presence, he might be getting on a bit but when he plays the team looks far more organised and solid. However. he’s missed too many games due to injury.
Jason Holt – 7
Offers energy and a great work rate in the centre of the park. Sometimes lacks overall quality but you know what you get every time he steps on the park.
David Bates – 7
One appearance one man of the match, not much more I can add to that.
Carlos Pena – 6
The enigma that is Carlos Pena. At times it seems as if he won the chance to play for us and at other times he looks like the best player on the park. Scored some vital goals, has shown he has a eye for a pass, but can look lazy and disinterested for long spells. It will be interesting to see if he can kick on.
Aaron Nemane – 3
Why do we have him? What a waste of a wage. He would be better used playing one of our own youngsters.
Ryan Hardie – 5
I feel Ryan’s time at us may be over as he has failed to establish any kind of momentum and is not impressed coming off the bench.
Ross McCorie – 9
What a player we have here. Can play midfield or centre half, can pass a ball, tackle, head, and even pops up with the odd goal. All round, the most impressive player so far.
Steven Harrigan
Let me know how you feel about my ratings!
@steven_harrigan
@rangersnewsuk