Rabbi Matondo comeback last thing Rangers fans expected after Ibrox transfers
Stephen McGowan has insisted that a Rabbi Matondo comeback will be the last thing Rangers fans expected to see after his shining role off the bench against Livingston.
The journalist wrote in the Scottish Daily Mail [14 August, pg 6] that he showed what he still has to offer when the team are in need of an injection of pace and width to their attack in the 4-0 win at Ibrox.
Matondo was one of the main names suggested to be leaving Ibrox this summer after the £13million transfer outlay was largely focused towards forwards, but he has reminded his fans and boss of exactly why they may need to keep him around.
McGowan wrote: After spending £13m on attacking reinforcements, the last thing Rangers fans expected to see was a Matondo comeback.
“Yet the Welshman’s surging run and assist for a stunning Dowell finish in the final moments reminded everyone of what he has to offer when Rangers need some pace and width.”
The entire squad will play a part
Despite the clear focus on improving his attacking options this summer, Michael Beale has been shown exactly what his current crop of players are capable of.
Matondo’s pace and direct play offered Rangers a new angle to stretch the game, which could come in handy if they are struggling to break a team down. Bringing on the Welshman against the tired legs of a full-back will often result in a deadly ending.
This cameo is a reminder that the entire squad will play a part under Beale as Rangers look to be competitive on all fronts, competing in four competitions and aiming to get as far as they can into all of them.
There is an expectation that comes with pulling on the blue shirt at Ibrox. Rangers fans will be expecting the team to win, if not reach the final, in each of the three domestic competitions, as well as the bonus of results in European competitions.
Players like Matondo being allowed to make their case for a leading role is exactly why it is important to have a big squad to compete across each competition. When rotation is necessary, having quality depth is crucial.
In other Rangers news, one BBC pundit has urged Rangers to sign yet another forward.