Todd Cantwell could be key to Rangers push for Scottish Premiership title under Michael Beale
By Richard Bond.
January signing Todd Cantwell could be the transfer that helps propel Rangers back into title contention with his combination of hardworking displays and tenacity within the midfield.
After a second standout performance in a row in the 4-2 victory over Motherwell at Fir Park over the weekend, he took home the man of the match accolade for the Light Blues.
The 25-year-old Norwich City trainee Cantwell looks to have found a perfect home in the shape of Michael Beale’s Scottish Premiership championship chasers.
Eye-catching with his work rate, Cantwell’s box-to-box performance caught the eye by often starting attacks from a slightly unfamiliar deeper role, whilst also contributing to the final third, scoring his maiden goal for the club.
A standout performer Beale, unbeaten in the league since taking over the managerial duties in November, is clearly impressed with the form of his addition.
“I think he has surprised a lot of people in terms of his positioning. He’s playing a little bit deeper. Working so hard for the team, regains the ball and is involved in all aspects. One key area is to create and score goals,” said Beale after the victory.
“He gets an assist last week for Scott Arfield and goes and scores his first goal for Rangers today. I’ve been delighted with him. I am delighted for him today as that is a special moment for him personally.”
Standout.
Having fallen out of favour at Norwich under former Canaries boss Dean Smith, Cantwell spent an uneventful loan spell at then Championship side Bournemouth.
Beale, then manager of Queens Park Rangers clearly saw something in Cantwell who has six Premier League goals to his name. Versatile in his positioning, Rangers look to have found a gem to supply the likes of Croatian forward Antonio Mirko Colak.
Interestingly in the last two matches he has been providing the link and support for the bombing runs of top-scoring fullback James Tavernier providing the space for the former Newcastle trainee to unlock defences on the right-hand side.
Time will tell whether Cantwell can help his side close the nine-point gap in the title race. The signs though are looking good for the possibility of silverware come May.
Revenge first on their Old Firm rivals in the Scottish Cup semi-final on April 30 will certainly be the next target for Beale’s side. One thing is for certain though, Cantwell will have a key role to play in his side’s fortunes in achieving their targets.
In other Rangers news, a pundit with insider information at Ibrox has shared one condition that will make Douglas Park leave the club.