Ibrox View: Mr Reliable shows how integral he is at Rangers after topping European stat
Connor Goldson has been a pivotal figure in the heart of the Rangers back line since his Brighton move three years ago and he is continuing to impress this season.
As reported by The Scotsman, Goldson has racked up 3,150 minutes for Rangers this season in all competitions which is more than any other player in Europe, excluding international action.
That is a quite stunning statistic that shows just how durable Goldson is and it also acts as a sign of his mental endurance as well as showing his physical ability.
As a defender Goldson’s mentality and concentration is tested more than most with the constant necessity to be on the ball and sharp as to striker’s movements.
This is shown more than ever when playing for Rangers such is their dominance on the ball and desire to hold a high line, something Goldson has to be constantly wary of as the opposition devise counter-attacks.
Goldson and co have coped admirably with what has been asked of them, evidenced in the staggeringly few goals they have conceded, with just seven in 24 Scottish Premiership games.
While Steven Gerrard’s side are not required to repel attack after attack Goldson still ranks highly in a number of Premiership statistics that show he is integral to this Rangers machine and evidence why he is undroppable.
Per Wyscout, his 70.63% aerial duel success rate is the seventh-highest in the division while he jumps to fourth when it comes to defending his own penalty box (72.73%).
Goldson is also in the top 20 for blocks made with a total of 12 showing his commitment to the cause and willingness to put his body on the line.
Meanwhile Goldson has made the most passes (1779) in the Premiership this season as he has constantly kept the ball ticking for Rangers as they devise their best route to goal or acting as a safeguard to keep hold of a vital lead.
Goldson will be required to maintain this form as the season begins to move into serious territory.
The Gers hold a 20 point lead over Old Firm rivals Celtic with less than half of the season remaining and they will be confident of wrapping up the title before the last month or two of the season, but they also remain in the Europa League and will need their defenders on top form if they are to navigate their way to the latter stages of that competition.
One thing is for sure, Goldson will be guaranteed to be fit and raring to go as he enters the back end of what has already been a mammoth season for him.
In other Rangers news, Peterborough United owner pours cold water on suggestions of Siriki Dembele moving in January.