Jorg Albertz: ‘Phenomenal’ Allan McGregor produced Rangers turning point v Red Star Belgrade
Allan McGregor produced the turning point for Rangers in the Red Star Belgrade tie, putting them in position to qualify in Serbia, says Jorg Albertz.
The goalkeeper had come under fire for some unsure performances this season, with notable errors leading to goals against the likes of Ross County and Motherwell, but produced a stunning penalty save in keeping a clean sheet during the 3-0 European win.
Like so many of his teammates he raised his game for the big night, and ex-Ibrox midfielder Albertz believes his contribution was the key on the night.
Writing in his Daily Echo column this morning the former Ger said: “Red Star are a dangerous side but I think Rangers can score in Serbia and go through.
“James Tavernier was unbelievable and the turning point in the game was Allan McGregor’s penalty save.
“To do that at 40? Come on, he’s just phenomenal.”
Life in him yet
The suggestion that it might be time to replace the number one with Jon McLaughlin was growing after the senior player conspired with Connor Goldson to allow two sloppy Motherwell goals.
The damaging dropped points, from a winning position, passed up a massive opportunity to draw level with Celtic at the top of the league, and handed the initiative back to the Hoops in the title race.
But Giovanni van Bronckhorst showed faith in the former Scotland man the in gloves, and it was duly repaid at Ibrox in midweek.
An excellent save low to his right saw a strong hand knock the ball to safety, as the hosts’ goal lead a charmed life all evening.
Jordan Campbell in The Athletic recently detailed a loss of authority that had come with McGregor’s drop in form, that appeared to be unsettling his defenders.
But if he can provide a few more moments like the one he did in the European tie then his previous status should begin to be restored.
At his age there are obviously fewer years left in the Gers starting XI than for some, but perhaps we were writing him off too soon.
In other Rangers news, one former Ibrox goalscorer doesn’t want to see a current one upset a third.