Rangers fans in anxious wait as Fashion Sakala faced moment of truth in new image
After some excellent work from Todd Cantwell, Fashion Sakala pounced against Celtic’s Carl Starfelt to set up a one-on-one with Joe Hart, that would clinch the game for Rangers.
In the 70th minute of the Old Firm contest at Ibrox on Saturday at 2-0, Sakala had a golden opportunity to score but given his propensity to produce the unbelievable and not in a good way, the chance could not be taken for granted.
As he rounded Hart leaving the former Manchester City goalkeeper stranded on the turf, Ibrox collectively held its breath with many fans clasping their head in both hands.
As highlighted above on Twitter, it was a gilt-edged chance but it was also Sakala.
The high-profile glaring misses against Celtic in each of the recent games at Hampden are still fresh in the minds of many but thankfully there was to be no sequel, this time.
Instead, the Zambian rolled the ball into the net with his left foot, by the smallest of margins inside the post.
Goal. 3-0. Joy. Relief.
Predictably inconsistent
What you see is what you get with Sakala, from the sublime to the ridiculous.
He has the ability to contribute significantly as evidenced on Saturday with a fine performance, including his goal. He was also involved with the build-up for the opener in an overall committed display, then there are times when his lack of finesse is blatantly obvious.
Falling over the ball, shooting to concede a throw-in or missing from close range, the only thing that is guaranteed from Sakala is that he is predictably inconsistent.
When the rebuild comes over the summer, there should be a place for him in the squad. He is low-maintenance, has a great attitude, and provides a decent return but of course, he shouldn’t be a contender as a first choice up front.
On the other hand, it will not be difficult at all to sell and reinvest if interest in the 26-year old is stong enough to meet Rangers’ valuation of the player.
In other Rangers news, this bid could be part of a triple transfer push at Ibrox with millions set to be spent.