Ibrox Exclusive: Frank McAvennie backs McLaughlin to keep Rangers number one spot for now
We’re delighted to welcome former Scottish international Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Rangers…
Frank McAvennie has suggested that Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor might have to “bide his time” until he gets a chance to displace Jon McLaughlin between the sticks at Ibrox.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, the former Celtic striker hailed McLaughlin for his impressive form since he came into the side, but also claimed that McGregor will relish the competition for his starting place.
The Gers’ summer signing has been called into action for his new club ever since Steven Gerrard’s usual number one picked up a knock in the Europa League defeat to Bayer Leverkusen last month.
McLaughlin has gone on to keep five consecutive clean sheets, and McAvennie believes he deserves to keep the number one spot even after McGregor returns to full fitness.
Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “Knowing McGregor, he’ll want to be getting back in. He’ll be encouraged by the new lad.
“Keepers are a rare breed, so he’ll be working hard, dying to get back in. He’ll wait his chance.
“I don’t think it’d be a huge surprise if he’s not back in because McLaughlin’s done well. You can’t say he hasn’t.
“McGregor might have to bide his time, but that competition will be a good thing for Rangers. The two of them will help each other. McGregor is used to winning. He’ll see this as a wee challenge, and I think he’ll take it and wait until he gets his turn. When he does, he’ll be hoping McLaughlin doesn’t get back in.”
McLaughlin has yet to concede a single goal since making the move to Ibrox from Sunderland this summer, and Gerrard himself has admitted that his goalkeeping situation is giving him a pleasant “headache”.
For his part, McGregor had been Gerrard’s undisputed number one ever since he returned to Ibrox, and made 49 appearances in all competitions last season.
In other Rangers news, Leon Balogun has started life in Glasgow brilliantly.