Abdallah Sima steps up for Rangers despite struggles this season
Despite the inconsistent performances of the Rangers squad this season, and the lacklustre displays from a number of Michael Beale’s summer signings, Abdallah Sima has stood up to be counted.
The forward on loan from Brighton has shone despite showing some inconsistency at the start of his Ibrox spell, with his goal against St Mirren making it five in his last four games, stepping up during a down spell for the club.
Rangers fans expressed their displeasure at the state of the club with a banner before the game reading: “Heartless. Passionless. Leaderless. Not fit to wear out colours”, [Daily Record, 8 October] but despite this, Sima has stood out.
Of the summer signings, Jack Butland has been the only one to come in for any particular praise, with the below-par performances of the likes of Cyriel Dessers and Sam Lammers coming in for particular scrutiny, while Sima seems to have flown under the radar.
His pace and forward-thinking nature have been a standout, particularly in the Scottish League Cup clash with Livingston where he terrorised the defence, but his performance against St Mirren has shown what he can do yet again.
On top of the goal, Sima won all four of his aerial duels and four of his seven ground duels, completed 100% of his dribbles and provided a key threat going forward with two shots on target. He gave the ball away 13 times, but it was a sign of his creative intent as he didn’t fade away when struggling. [Sofascore]
The ability to step up when times are tough is one you don’t find in many players, but it’s a trait you’d want in any successful side. Sima is no luxury player and has proved already this season he can provide a consistent source of goals. It’s now time to give him his flowers.
In other Rangers news, Chris Sutton and Kris Boyd disagree on praise for key Rangers man.