Philippe Clement is having to work with one hand tied behind his back as he looks to rebuild Rangers.
The manager inherited a shapeless and imbalanced squad which is still having an effect on team selections and performance.
The initial raft of signings was promising, a series of youngsters and players tipped to have successful careers with Connor Barron in particular hitting the ground running.
Rangers can still sign Stuart Armstrong after Brentford trial
On the experienced side, only Robin Propper and Vaclav Cerny have recently arrived with the initial indications that they could be astute additions.
One player who has been linked before and is still available seemed certain to land a Premier League contract, however, Stuart Armstrong is still available as Rangers look for individuals who can make an immediate impact.
Only a matter of weeks ago, the 51-times capped Scotland international, seemed certain to sign for Brentford with Thomas Frank explaining why the 32-year old was on trial:
“Great experience, great player, great career and there is more in him there is no doubt about that. He has been training with us and a bit of helping each other. Him, to get him to a good level, and for us, we have another good player in and that is the plan so far.”
And yet, no deal was agreed.
Rangers released Ryan Jack, who is the same age as Armstrong, but his problem is availability – there is a reason he hasn’t found a club yet.
Clement is short of depth in midfield, short of experience and short of home-grown options too.
Armstrong ticks a lot of boxes for Rangers
His time at Celtic shouldn’t block any potential interest too given he doesn’t have any allegiances with them other than his time as a player.
Armstrong also suits the profile of player that Clement is now looking for:
“We were focused on everything, but it is easier earlier to get the young players in, but for the rest of the transfer window there will also be experience coming into the building and we need a good balance in the squad and in the team of both.
“It was important to find these young talents and I think we have found a few really exciting players for the future for this club.”
Against Motherwell, it became evident again just how short of alternative options that the Gers boss has on the bench.
Substitutes should be capable of changing the game in a good way, the shape, game plan and control shouldn’t be lost purely because the first-choice players have departed the field of play.
Armstrong has a good medical history and is off the back of an outstanding season in the Championship with Southampton.
He ticks a lot of boxes.
Someone will be getting a bargain.
