‘Phenomenal shape’ – Gerrard drools over ‘amazing’ Rangers man for form since lockdown
Rangers manager Steven Gerrard said that midfielder Steven Davis is in “phenomenal shape” and praised his form since the return of Scottish football.
Davis was excellent alongside Glen Kamara in the Rangers midfield against Benfica, and continues to put in performances at the age of 35.
The Northern Ireland international has 15 appearances to his name for the club so far this season and his manager has clearly noticed his level of dedication.
“Steven (Davis) is in good form and has been since returning from lockdown”, Gerrard said (via Rangers).
“His professional, attitude and application are amazing. He returned from lockdown in phenomenal shape.”
Still got it
Davis is an immensely experienced player at the highest level, and one that consistently seems to raise his game for the important occasion.
A talisman for his country Northern Ireland, he has been a steady presence since arriving at the club in January 2019. Last season he made 43 appearances for the club in all competitions and as Gerrard mentioned, has been even better since the start of the new campaign.
In the Europa League he has averaged 80.5 passes per match at a completion rate of 91.9%, and managed 95 accurate passes against Benfica on Thursday (via WhoScored). Not only was he metronomic in possession, but he also contributed in the final third, delivering one key pass and taking one shot. In the air he won two duels, while he completed three tackles and two interceptions on the night (via WhoScored).
Given his age, it is unrealistic for Davis to play every week and with Ryan Jack, Kamara and Scott Arfield, Gerrard has options at his disposal and the ability to rotate as he manages a busy schedule. However, on last night’s showing, the Northern Irishman proved that he remains a player for the biggest matches in Europe and domestically.
In other Rangers news, ‘In hindsight, maybe’ – Gerrard admits decision he might have got wrong v Benfica