Cedric Itten could be like a new signing for Rangers next season
Cedric Itten has had a bit of a difficult debut season at Rangers but he could really kick on next season.
There are a few reasons for that, both personal to Itten and external factors that could have a knock-on effect, such as potential departures.
News broke this week that Steven Gerrard would not stand in the way of Alfredo Morelos’ potential exit.
So as long as a club makes an appropriate bid it is very likely the Colombian will finally leave, after missing out on a move to Lille last year.
It would be a blow to lose his talent but Itten would surely be licking his lips as he would get a chance to impress.
Gerrard would undoubtedly add a new striker to the squad but he knows Itten well and the strengths he possesses – that could be vital to him playing.
Itten has showed his skills on occasion but his limited appearances make it hard to judge his first season in Scotland.
He has started just four games and never got a regular run in the team and we feel the best is definitely yet to come.
The forward said himself that he has not been able to reach his best heights due to a lack of pre-season – he arrived at Ibrox during the Swiss league season so has not had a proper rest since June 2020.
Also, his lack of game time means it has taken him longer to adjust to the style of football than most new signings.
That has a negative effect on his relationship with teammates.
The likes of Ryan Kent, Ianis Hagi and Joe Aribo understand Morelos perfectly and that allows the attacking line to flourish.
Itten is a completely different type of centre-forward to the Colombian and we look more fragmented when he starts because of that.
As a result, more game time and responsibility next year could really benefit Itten, and if he makes a strong start he will be exactly like a new signing.
After all, there is clearly talent there – his 36 goals in 63 games for FC St. Gallen 1879 evidence as much.
Gerrard called him “magnificent” earlier this season for a reason.
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