Barry Ferguson blown away by Rangers winger Ryan Kent ahead of ViaPlay Cup final v Celtic
Rangers will face Celtic in the ViaPlay cup final on Sunday (26 February) at Hampden Park, and Barry Ferguson expects Ryan Kent to make a difference.
The Bears winger, who has a contract at the club until the end of the season, has looked “more dangerous” under Beale, and Ferguson says he is one player that “jumps out” for him.
Celtic are looking unbeatable at the moment, but it’s a cup game and anything can happen. The Gers are also on a great run under Beale, but Ferguson suggests that they will have to be at their best to pick up a win on Sunday.
“Rangers will have their work cut out and they will have to be at their best,” said Ferguson on Go Radio (22 February).
“But as I said, Rangers have started to gain some strength in depth and players have started to find a bit of form.
“One player jumps out, Ryan Kent. He’s now scored a few more goals, more assists, and he looks more dangerous in that free role Michael Beale has created.
“Both sets of teams play an attacking style. That is why I think there will be gaps at the back and goals in the game.”
Beale effect
Beale has said time and again that he wants Kent to be a part of his long-term project at the club, but as of now, he is yet to commit to his future at Ibrox.
A strong performance against Celtic will probably convince the board that the club should make an exception and give him the contract he deserves.
Beale deserves a lot of credit for Kent’s transformation. Kent has scored three goals and provided seven assists in the Scottish Premiership this season, and has looked dangerous in recent weeks.
Kent has always been a class player, but he was often criticized for his lack of output. Under Giovanni van Bronckhorst, he used to cut inside from the left flank and his movements became very predictable.
Beale has changed his role completely. He is now given a free role, similar to what Lionel Messi enjoyed for Argentina during the World Cup in Qatar. With his quality, he can now influence the game a lot more, and as a result, we are seeing more goals and assists from him.
With Malik Tillman doubtful for this game, Rangers will need Kent to step up once again.
In other Rangers news, Kenny Miller has questioned if the club need to make a marquee signing this summer.