By Sam Stone

27th Mar, 2023 | 7:10am

Left-wing politician reacts to Glen Kamara after Rangers man lauded by Northern Ireland fans

Finnish politician Paavo Arhinmaki has reacted to Northern Ireland fans’ reception of Glen Kamara after the Rangers midfielder featured during Finland’s 1-0 win in Belfast.

The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes as Benjamin Källman’s first-half goal gave the Scandinavian side a vital three points in their European qualifying campaign.

Arhinmaki, who is part of a left-wing political group in Finland, revealed Kamara seemed to be one of the most popular players amongst the Windsor Park faithful due to his Rangers connection.

“Glen Kamara seems to be the most popular player in the stadium. For Ulster supporters, Glasgow Rangers seems to be bigger than the national team,” he wrote (personal Twitter, 26 March).

No surprise

This shouldn’t come as a surprise.

We all know the historical connections with Ireland and the strong support the Gers have in the North. It was another impressive performance from Kamara on the international stage. He’s produced some memorable displays since Michael Beale’s arrival, he just needs to perform more consistently.

The next couple of months will be huge for the 27-year-old. Beale’s patience is potentially wearing thin. The Light Blues’ boss needs players he can trust to perform consistently and, as of now, Kamara hasn’t demonstrated he can be a constant feature in the heart of Rangers’ midfield.

There was strong interest in the midfielder at the end of the summer window and it would not be a surprise to see the club cash in if a relatively substantial offer does arrive during the off-season. The summer window will provide the Light Blues’ boss with the perfect chance to rip up and rebuild his squad.

It’s something he and Ross Wilson cannot afford to get wrong.

In other Rangers news, this Ibrox coach is being tipped to leave Govan for a “big club in England” as managerial speculation emerges south of the border.