Sam Stone

Sat 24 December 2022 17:10, UK

Jon McLaughlin has been frustrated by his lack of gametime after impressing for Rangers in their 1-0 win over Ross County on Friday evening.

John Lundstram’s strike was enough for Michael Beale’s side to seal all three points and close the gap to Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

McLaughlin was excellent on his return to the side but the former Sunderland keeper believes Allan McGregor will retake the number one spot when he returns from Illness.

“It is always frustrating for any player, of course. I don’t think I am unique in that sense. There is no doubt about that,” said McLaughlin (quoted by the Glasgow Evening Times, 24 December).

“We have got a very good squad, we have to battle hard and we have players coming back from injury now so we are only going to get stronger.

“Hopefully I have been able to contribute tonight and take my place out there. Allan will come back in when he is fit I am sure.”

Tough call

It will be interesting to see if Beale sticks with McLaughlin for the Gers’ next two Scottish Premiership fixtures against Motherwell and Celtic. McLaughlin made a vital save in the win over Ross County (23 December) and has certainly given the 42-year-old something to think about.

It’s been a whirlwind start to life at Ibrox for Beale, with the Gers racking up a perfect record since his arrival. On the face of it, it seems like the ideal start, however, the performances will still worry the new boss. Defensive issues still plague Rangers, and it’s something he has to rectify soon.

The next Old Firm clash against Celtic is on the horizon, with three points a must if the Gers wish to harbour any hopes of lifting the Scottish Premiership title come the season’s end. However, a clash with Motherwell must be dealt with first before Rangers can turn their attention to their fierce Glasgow rivals.

In other Rangers news, the club are now fancying their chances of major a January transfer after Fabrizio Romano’s update with a move on the cards.