Rangers’ bright start to their opening game of the season against Aberdeen was only marred by Alfredo Morelos’ needless kick out on 12 minutes.
Steven Gerrard’s new-look side showed signs that they have gelled very quickly indeed with a slick performance, but will of course now be shorn of Morelos for the next league game against St Mirren.
That hands an opportunity to another new signing – Umar Sadiq – to step into the breach left by Morelos’ unavailability.
The slickness of Rangers’ performance provides a strong base behind Sadiq and could actually allow him to flourish, as an unpredictable player capable of the sublime.
As long as he can provide reliable hold-up play when needed and bring the midfield into play at the right times, Sadiq should get opportunities to put the ball in the back of the net.
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Morelos’ early departure has handed him an opportunity he cannot have expected so soon after joining the club, but if he takes it and shows his talent, there is no reason why he cannot blossom into a towering number nine that inspires this new-look side.
There has also reportedly been interest in Morelos from Ligue 1, and if a deal is done before the transfer window closes, that would hand Sadiq quite the opportunity.
A reliable frontman could elevate this Rangers team from tidy, technical and energetic to genuinely potent. There is also nothing fans love more than a tall, powerful striker banging in the goals on a regular basis.
Sadiq has an opportunity to prove he can be that figure at Ibrox. He must be ready to take it.