Rangers striker Kemar Roofe needs ‘one moment’ of inspiration v Celtic
Rangers will face Celtic in the Viaplay Cup final on Sunday (26 February) at Hampden Park, and Michael Beale has got selection dilemma.
The Gers boss could be without nine players for this game (Scottish Daily Mail (back page, 22 February), but it appears that Roofe will be available to feature in this massive contest.
The 30-year-old has barely featured this season, but he looked sharp against Livingston. He has a fantastic goal-scoring ratio, despite his poor injury records, and Beale likes him as well.
Based on this comment from Beale, it is pretty clear that Roofe is in his plans for the Old Firm clash. However, it is most likely that he will come from the bench.
Alfredo Morelos is likely to lead the line, but Roofe will be needed at some point. Beale is looking for that “one moment” of inspiration from him that can change the game completely.
And this is where Roofe can be dangerous. He is a quality player and Beale knows that very well. There are fears that he could be a doubt for this clash, but it seems, he can shake it off.
At Hampden, if such a scenario arrives, Roofe can seize the opportunity which could decide his future at Ibrox.
It is clear that Beale will oversee a massive rebuilding process in the summer. He has made it clear that the squad needs to be trimmed, and players who are out of contract or have become surplus to requirements are likely to be sold.
The Jamaican has a contract at Ibrox until 2024. He was linked with a move away from the club back in the summer [Daily Record], but he can still enjoy a long-term future under Beale.
This is a game he has to make a strong impact, even if from the bench. Beale has shared his vision of how he wants to build a core team, and Sunday will present a glorious opportunity for Roofe to be a part of it.
In other Rangers news, Kenny Miller has questioned if the club need to make a marquee signing this summer.