Tom Lawrence to challenge Rangers attack after latest injury boost at Ibrox
Tom Lawrence looks set to challenge the new-look Rangers attack following his excellent post-injury performance for Rangers B.
The former Derby County man has had a tough time since moving to Ibrox in 2021, missing 306 days on the sidelines with an Achilles tendon injury. [TransferMarkt]
However, after a good 60-minute outing for the development side in a 4-2 victory over Hamilton, Lawrence could provide Michael Beale with some answers to his attacking issues.
The Welshman has only had the chance to make nine senior appearances for the Gers since his move from Pride Park, but as a Championship mainstay with the Rams and a full Wales international, his absence has been missed at Ibrox.
Meanwhile, Rangers’ start to the season has been rocky but optimism has been rejuvenated following a thrilling clash against PSV on Tuesday (23 August).
However, one issue Beale’s side has faced is a tough time in front of goal. The host of new attacking talent, including Cyriel Dessers, Danilo and Sam Lammers, are yet to hit their stride at Ibrox, and competition from the experienced Lawrence could be the needed motivation.
Rangers have scored four goals in the league so far this season. Compared to Celtic’s seven, Beale needs to encourage his front line if he wants to keep up with their arch-rivals.
Naturally, Lawrence is unlikely to walk into the side straight away. Rangers B coach David McCallum noted Beale’s desire to see Lawrence continue his recovery in anticipation of a first-team return.
As quoted by the Daily Record (23 August), McCallum told RangersTV: “It was important for him to get back on the pitch and game environments. Obviously, the manager was keen for him to get minutes on the pitch.
“Tom coming to the group was excellent, speaking to the lads and sharing his experience. It’s something we spoke to him before the game and it’s something he enjoyed.”
Beale will be eager to see Lawrence return as he will provide quality competition for the new signings. Dessers has been given regular starts this season but has only managed to net twice so far. Likewise, Danilo has only scored twice while can boast just a single goal.
While on the surface this does not seem terrible, the expectations coming into the mean that Gers fans are disappointed in the output thus far.
Lawrence, an experienced and capable forward, could be the motivation needed for the new boys to truly get into their goalscoring groove.
In other Rangers news, Ally McCoist has shared his prediction for the Gers’ second-leg clash against PSV.