‘Colossal’ – Ex-Rangers hero bowled over by ‘superb’ Ibrox talent v Braga
Former Rangers winger Neil McCann has heaped praise on Rangers defender George Edmundson for his performance in the Gers’ 1-0 win over SC Braga on Wednesday evening.
The 22-year-old was drafted in by Steven Gerrard in place of Nikola Katic, who endured a torrid afternoon against St. Johnstone on Sunday.
And the Englishman stepped up to the plate well, putting in an assured and commanding performance as his side booked their place in the last 16 of the Europa League.
The defender was so impressive that he drew glowing praise from ex-Ibrox hero McCann.
Speaking to BBC Sport (19.02), he said: “That should make us all very proud of our football here.
“George Edmundson was superb. I thought he was colossal at the back.
“The whole back four were good in terms of discipline.”
Was Edmundson “colossal” against Braga?
In a word, yes.
The 22-year-old was thrown back into the side after Katic’s horror show at the weekend, and he was so good that you can only assume that Steven Gerrard will have to start him from here on out.
From first whistle to last he commanded the backline, and showed time and time again how physically imposing he can be.
As well as winning three aerial duels, he also made a massive eight clearances, as per Whoscored, and helped to repel a Braga side that registered 70% possession on the night.
This was a simple, effective, no-nonsense performance from the centre-back, and his match rating of 7.35 was more than justified.
Edmundson has to keep his place against Hearts on Saturday.
In other Rangers news, ‘For the record…’ – Chris Sutton hits back at Gers fan on Twitter after win v Braga.