Ibrox view: What can Bongani Zungu bring to the Rangers midfield?
Bongani Zungu made his long-awaited Rangers debut on Sunday in an 8-0 thrashing of Hamilton Academical in the Scottish Premiership at Ibrox.
With Rangers already 4-0 up when he replaced Ryan Jack at half-time, it is difficult to make too many concrete conclusions about his first appearance. However, what he showed in his limited time on the pitch was certainly impressive.
The South Africa international completed 92% of his 38 passes and recorded an impressive 40 touches of the ball in just 45 minutes (via WhoScored). Not only was his passing accurate, but he showed excellent range and vision.
Positioned at the base of the Rangers midfield, it was immediately evident that Zungu was comfortable receiving the ball from the centre-backs with his back to play or on the half-turn, before turning and spinning the ball wide or looking to play a through ball in between the lines.
He also showed some nice positional intelligence and looked to have quickly adapted to Steven Gerrard’s system. As Connor Goldson looks to drive forward with space opening up on the right, Zungu immediately slips into the backline to cover.
His range of passing is what will most likely excite fans though, with his bravery to thread a difficult pass or hit a raking ball immediately clear.
Rangers’ movement was excellent against a static Accies defence and this played directly to the 28-year-old’s strengths. With their front three constantly looking to get in behind, Zungu was able to attempt some dangerous through balls.
The South African’s passing is not all long-range though and he played numerous clipped balls in the centre of the park, allowing Steven Gerrard’s side to cut out defenders and switch play quickly.
While he may only be 45 minutes into his Ibrox career, the early signs were positive. With a packed midfield at Rangers at the moment, the path to consistent starts is difficult, but he showed plenty on his first appearance.
In other Rangers news, View: 2.3 key passes per game – Unheralded international who is key creative Gers cog