Ibrox View: Lichtsteiner would not be a good signing for Rangers, despite what Daily Record says
If Rangers are to scupper Celtic’s 10-in-a-row celebrations next season then they will have to show a humongous amount of character.
When you look at our current squad, however, there is certainly an argument to be made for it lacking in a wealth of experienced battlers who are winning to win at all costs.
Allan McGregor, yes. Steven Davis? Maybe. But in terms of nailed on personalities who have been here and done it before, there aren’t loads.
And that’s rationale behind the Daily Record suggesting that the Gers should make a move for newly free agent Stephan Lichtsteiner.
The Switzerland veteran has over 700 career appearances to his name, and has played for the likes of Lazio, Juventus, and Arsenal in his career.
Having left Augsburg recently, the 36-year-old is now available on a free transfer, but even with his vast experience, we’re not convinced.
Once upon a time, Lichtsteiner was one of the most revered full-backs in European football, but he lacks the impact that he once did.
For instance, this season he has made 1.93 fewer dribbles than James Tavernier per game, as per Wyscout, as well as making 4.11 fewer crosses.
As a simple comparison, this is the Swiss’ heat map from this season.
Below is Tavernier’s.
The deeper red means he has played more minutes, but what you should take from this is how much better Tavernier covers his flank.
Not only does he get further forward, but he also tracks further back, and is willing to step infield too.
Lichtsteiner’s delivery lacks quality far too often as well.
Above his cross map from a 2-0 defeat to Hertha Berlin in May.
In that match, the full-back attempted three crosses – his joint highest tally of the season.
Two of them hit the first man, and the other was a hopeless punt of his weaker left foot.
Look at the image above, for example.
There can be no excuse for playing that ball when the defender is so close and so blatantly set to block your effort.
In short, if you’d have asked us if we wanted Lichtsteiner five years ago, we would have bitten your hand off.
Now, we’d rather look elsewhere.
In other Rangers news, Ibrox View: Rangers could get 20/21 boost after transfer reports on rival striker.