Michael Beale has the new Joe Aribo at Ibrox as Malik Tillman shines for Rangers yet again
Michael Beale may have the new Joe Aribo in his ranks after Rangers forward Malik Tillman has been compared to the Southampton midfielder by Jack Ross.
The former Sunderland manager has hailed Tillman as “fantastic” for his decision-making and awareness to find Alfredo Morelos for the third goal, as the Gers won 3-2 against Hibernian on Thursday (15 December) at Ibrox.
Ross suggests that Tillman can play in multiple positions and finds similarities with Aribo who moved to Southampton for around £10 million in the summer.
“It’s finding exactly where to play him. Similarities with Joe Aribo,” said Ross, as quoted by Hampshire Live.
“He can play as a 10, or part of a front three. He is creative, runs behind the striker too. His feet within the box, decision making, awareness to find Morelos is fantastic.”
Tillman joined the Gers in the summer transfer window on loan from Bayern Munich and has done reasonably well.
The 20-year-old made a brilliant start for the Gers but he has been inconsistent with his form. At times, he has been outstanding, while at other times he has been below par.
There’s no doubt that he is supremely talented. He is a versatile player, and Beale must give him the freedom to get the best out of him.
The home side were trailing 2-1 at the break, but they found strength and quality when it really mattered. In the end, they bagged all three points, with Tillman providing two assists.
Ryan Jack guided Tillman’s near post header in from close range to equalize. Moments later, Tillman evaded the challenge of Paul Hanlon and showed great awareness to find Morelos who scored the winner.
Tillman is a creative playmaker who can become a cult hero for Rangers for years to come. He is exciting to watch and has the ability to produce moments of brilliance.
The Gers have the option to buy him for £6 million (BILD journalist, Christian Falk, 14 September) and it seems like Beale wants to keep him at the club beyond next summer.
The 42-year-old made it clear that he wants Tillman to stay at Ibrox beyond his loan spell (BBC Sport, 10 December) and there’s every chance the club could spend the money on him to make his move permanent.
Aribo did a tremendous job at Ibrox during his time. Tillman can reach similar levels as well if he is given proper support and confidence.
In other Rangers news, an out-of-court agreement could be reached for the Gers as documents have been submitted.