Andy Walker claims Rangers ace is ‘begging’ for key role v Hibs, identifies ‘terrific’ opponent
Andy Walker has claimed that Rangers veteran Steven Davis is “begging to exert his authority” in the key top of the table clash between his side and Hibernian on Sunday.
The Gers travel to Easter Road knowing that a first loss of the season would allow their hosts to draw level on points with them at the summit of the Scottish Premiership table, as well as opening the door for bitter rivals Celtic to do the same.
But Walker has picked out 35-year-old Davis as a talent who could be integral to Steven Gerrard’s hopes of returning to Glasgow with all three points.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “As much as Hibs have impressed this season, this will provide Jack Ross with a good gauge as to how far his team have come and possibly how far they have to go to compete at the top end of the table for a longer period.
“Rangers, as expected, strolled through their Europa League qualifier in Gibraltar [with a 5-0 win over Lincoln Red Imps on Thursday] and it was a bonus for Steven Gerrard to see Jermain Defoe fit again and getting on the scoresheet.
“The midfield battle for supremacy will play a big part as to who might emerge victorious; Alex Gogic has been terrific for the home side while Steve Davis is begging to exert his authority again.”
Walker has backed Rangers to beat Hibs 3-1.
How important will Davis be on Sunday?
However important he would have been initially, double it now that Ryan Jack has been ruled out.
The 28-year-old is set for a spell on the sidelines with a calf complaint, and in his absence, you would imagine that it will be Steven Davis and Glen Kamara who are entrusted with manning the engine room.
To be fair to the Northern Ireland international, he’s been in good form this season too.
In fact, his pass completion rate is 0.8% higher than Jack’s, and he has also made more interceptions and ball recoveries per 90 minutes this season as well, as per Wyscout.
Missing Jack will obviously be a blow, but we’re in very capable hands when it comes to his experienced deputy.
In other Rangers news, the Gers have a player-plus-cash deal on the cards, club ready to swap centre-mid & forward.