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Rangers: Northern Irish newspaper reacts to Ross McCausland display in 4-0 loss v Finland
Rangers youngster Ross McCausland was handed his international debut on Friday (17 November) as Northern Ireland suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Finland in the Euro 2024 qualifying match.
Injury-hit Northern Ireland’s misery continued as they suffered a deflating 4-0 in Helsinki – their seventh defeat in their nine group-stage matches so far.
Ibrox gem McCausland was handed his first club start in the Scottish Premiership match with Livingston on Sunday (12 November), with that milestone immediately followed up by a first start for his country.
And Northern Irish newspaper Belfast Telegraph (17 November) shared their verdict on the youngster’s performance handing him a “5/10” rating, writing: “Rangers winger was handed debut in big call by O’Neill. Few good moments but crowded out by the home defence. Lasted 59 minutes.”
Take in his stride
McCausland has really enjoyed a rapid rise lately, with the youngster not in the first-team picture for club or country earlier this season.
He was overlooked by former Gers boss Michael Beale but is one of a number of players to have been given game time under new manager Philippe Clement.
And he is one of a number to have taken that opportunity with open arms, with McCausland handed his first start for Rangers against Livingston on Sunday (12 November) and even impressing in their 2-0 win.
Northern Ireland manager O’Neill has now taken notice of the youngster’s displays, handing McCausland a first international start against Finland and despite the heavy defeat, it’s an experience the youngster will certainly take in his stride.
Injuries to several key players may have forced the manager’s hand, but McCausland won’t care one bit, with the youngster certain to be delighted and proud of this achievement.
One he’ll certainly carry forward back at Rangers as he aims to continue to work his way into Clement’s thoughts in the coming weeks.
In other Rangers news, a journalist has predicted there to be “no shortage of takers” for one Gers ace if new contract talks “prove difficult” for the player.