Owen Hargreaves praises Ryan Kent after Rangers’ 1-1 draw at Brondby, but still thinks winger has point to prove
Owen Hargreaves praised Rangers winger Ryan Kent for his contribution against Brondby, but said he still has a point to prove on his return from injury.
Kent came on as part of a drastic triple substitution in the second half as Steven Gerrard attempted to salvage a result in Demark. The winger would go on to assist Ianis Hagi’s 77th-minute equaliser on his first appearance for six weeks.
The 24-year-old received praise for creating his side’s goal although, speaking on BT Sport’s highlights show (via The Boot Room), Hargreaves suggested that he’ll still have a point to prove on his return from the sidelines.
“Technically, he’s one of their best. Such an important player in goals and assists; direct, positive,” Hargreaves said.
When addressing the fact that he’s returning from injury, the former Manchester United player said: “Out for six weeks, you got a point to prove, hungry.”
Key player
Kent is without a doubt one of Gerrard’s most important and influential players. His absence in recent weeks has undeniably been an impactful factor in the side’s general lack of ruthlessness and cut-throat attitude throughout the duration of matches of late.
The 24-year-old was immense during Ranger’s invincible title-winning campaign last time out, registering 17 goal contributions in the league. In his five Scottish Premiership appearances this season, he’s managed two assists although has failed to find the back of the net.
His quality and effectiveness are indisputable, however. In spite of a six-week absence, the winger was immediately integral to Rangers’ general play after entering the field on Thursday night.
An insatiable player, he caused panic among the opposition and eventually made his presence count with a delightful assist for Hagi’s strike. Brilliantly taking Joe Aribo’s sharp lay-off in his stride, the winger bombed towards the Brondby area before slotted in Hagi, who finished with aplomb.
A moment of precision and class, it was the epitome of Kent’s ruthless quality and something he’ll look to replicate against Ross County on Sunday to prove to his manager that he’s ready to come back into the fold properly.
In other Rangers news, Chris Sutton was full of praise for Hagi after his goal saved Gers a point on Thursday.