‘Stevie really likes him’ – Exclusive: McLeish hails ‘proper’ Rangers player set for new deal
We’re delighted to welcome former Rangers manager Alex McLeish as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Alex McLeish has hailed Connor Goldson as one of Steven Gerrard’s “most important players” after a strong start to the season from the 27-year-old centre-back.
Goldson has played the full 90 minutes in every game Rangers have played this season and helped keep clean sheets in 13/16 matches.
He scored both goals in the 2-0 win against rivals Celtic and he’s also scored twice across three Europa League qualifiers.
His heroics have put him in line for a new Rangers contract, according to Football Insider, with less than two years left on his deal.
Talking exclusively to Ibrox News McLeish said, “The fact that I’ve seen Goldson in the team every week makes me feel Stevie really likes him.
“As a centre-back myself it’s good to study him and see what attributes he’s got.
“His real job is to keep the ball out at the other end – every defender loves to keep a clean sheet – but he’s also scored two goals, he’s blocking things, that’s a proper defender.
“He handles strength from the opposition very well
“The real change this season is that you can see the confidence and the leadership in him. He’s one of Steven Gerrard’s most important players.
“You talk about the spine of the team and Goldson is right at the centre of it.”
The 13 clean sheets that Rangers have kept this season are a big part of the reason they’re currently six points clear at the top of the Premiership and unbeaten in the Europa League.
If Goldson can keep up his strong start to the season, Rangers will have a very good chance of finally landing silverware under Gerrard.
In other Rangers news, ‘So controlled’ – Sky Sports pundit delivers verdict on Rangers and 20/21 Premiership title