Michael Beale has more ‘unwanted scrutiny’ on the way thanks to Celtic claims Kevin Thomson amid Rangers transfer verdict
Kevin Thomson believes Michael Beale faces some “unwanted scrutiny” at Rangers should Celtic complete a treble ahead of their pivotal summer of recruitment.
The Gers are set for a significant summer of change in player personnel after a trophy-less 2022/23 campaign.
Beale has claimed on several occasions that he is looking at a considerable rebuild during the off-season, with a number of players coming into the club and several players also set to leave.
Ahead of what is set to be arguably the biggest period for change at Ibrox in recent past, ex-Rangers player Thomson fears yet another Hoops treble will turn up some unwanted pressure on the Gers boss, despite recording a crucial 3-0 victory over their rivals on Saturday [13 May].
Speaking to the Daily Record [18 May], he said: “Mick is going to be judged on his recruitment, really. Celtic have got an opportunity next month to win another Treble. If they go on to do that – and the odds are they will – then it will just bring more unwanted scrutiny to Rangers’ door.
“So they’re going to have to get this summer bang on. I know Mick has got a great network when it comes to English football and identifying Championship players he think will want to come to Ibrox. The two he’s already signed in Raskin and Cantwell have shown he’s a good judge when it comes to recruiting.
“Celtic fans will respond to that by saying, ‘Well they won nothing.’ But the harsh reality is that they came in when Rangers were already behind so it’s only next year with a clean slate that these boys can be judged.”
Huge change
The victory over Celtic on Saturday certainly relieved some weight off Beale’s shoulders as his side duly proved they have what it takes to triumph over the Hoops when the heat is off.
However, Thomson is right in that another Celtic treble would heap up the pressure on the Rangers boss to deliver a successful rebuild as his squad is in desperate need of a refresh.
The fixtures against Celtic this season before Saturday’s encounter have majorly highlighted the gulf in class, quality and strategies of both teams with the Hoops possessing all the ingredients needed of challenging on all fronts, while Rangers still possess players who have one eye on the Ibrox exit door even before the season comes to a close.
This will be a huge summer of change for the Gers – arguably the biggest they will endure for a long while and Beale desperately needs to get his outgoings right as much as any potential outgoings.
Kent and Morelos are sure to be out the exit door and as many as around 10 players could be following them which means it could take some time – well into pre-season – before Beale can potentially possess a squad he is happy with.
In other Rangers news, the Portugal manager has been raving about the talent of one Ibrox ace.