Celtic need to be aware of Rangers forward Fashion Sakala – Andy Walker
Andy Walker has raved about Rangers forward Fashion Sakala, saying his pace can cause problems for any side, and Celtic need to be aware of his threat.
The Sky Sports pundit said on Go Radio (February 2) that the Zambian striker may need to work on his “end product” but he keeps getting himself into good positions.
The 25-year-old managed 12 goals and seven assists in all competitions for the Bears last season and has started the 2022-23 campaign brightly, scoring four goals already.
He has also provided five assists for the Bears in the Scottish Premiership and has proved that he rises to the occasion in big Old Firm derby games.
“Anyone with his pace will cause problems and anyone with his pace will be spoken about in how to nullify that threat,” said Walker on Go Radio, as relayed by Scottish Daily Express.
“I understand sometimes that his end product is not as productive as his pace and getting himself into good positions. But Celtic need to be aware of the threat he poses.
“He was one of the players who got Rangers in front at Ibrox a few weeks ago when Celtic did well to come back.”
Important player
Sakala was targeted by Spanish clubs last summer, and it was feared that Giovanni van Bronckhorst could sanction his exit.
Football Scotland reported on 21 July that Celta Vigo and Real Sociedad had asked about the attacker. Rangers signed Antonio Colak and Malik Tillman last summer, and Sakala may well have lost his spot in the side.
However, he refused to leave the club and the decision was the right one.
Having said that, he has looked lethal under Michael Beale in recent matches, who has found a way to get the best out of him.
Sakala is the type of player who can cause problems with his pace and directness, but he needs to work on his end product. If he can improve on that front, he will become an asset for the club.
Under Van Bronckhorst, Sakala was either used on the flank or as a striker, but Beale has used him behind Alfredo Morelos where he is given the license to get into the box at every opportunity. Sakala has benefitted largely from this tactical tweak.
In other Rangers news, Michael Beale has delivered the latest update on contract renewals for this deadly duo