John Lundstram admits he did not expect the level of intensity at ‘such a big club’ Rangers
John Lundstram admits he was not prepared for the level of scrutiny Rangers players are under playing for a club of its size.
The English midfielder arrived from Sheffield United in the summer, and the intensity of the criticism the players received in the wake of the 3-0 defeat to Celtic last week was far more than he ever expected, despite being an unused substitute for the game.
He admits the performance was nowhere near good enough, but feels the reaction has been strong, and he now knows the kind of environment he is in.
Speaking in Tuesday’s (February 8) press conference ahead of the visit of Hibs tonight, the 27-year-old said, via The Scotsman: “It’s definitely, definitely bigger at Rangers, one hundred percent. I knew how much of a big club it was before I joined.
“But I didn’t quite realise how big that it is and the scrutiny you come under to perform. Of course, you get that at other clubs and you’ve got to perform. But a club like Rangers is such a big club that it’s hard to put into words, really.”
Unprepared
It seems incredible to think that a player who has been around in football for the length of time that Lundstram has would underestimate the strength of feeling around an Old Firm derby.
The level of scrutiny for any well-supported team is pretty high considering the media coverage these days, including that run by fans themselves.
And for teams with high-profile derbies that is multiplied a number of times.
A particularly poor performance will result in heavy criticism at the best of times, but add all of these factors together and it was a perfect storm for Gers players after last week’s trip to Parkhead.
The situation at Ibrox is unique and probably takes any player to experience it from the inside to truly appreciate.
One thing that is certain is if the former Oxford United player didn’t understand before, he certainly does now.
In some ways it could be a slight silver lining from an admittedly damaging defeat, that any players, including January arrivals, who thought they were in for a comfy ride will be aware of the work required.
In other Rangers news, this Ibrox loanee is having a big impact at his current side.