Journo highlights Jose Cifuentes ‘redemption arc’ ahead of Rangers v Aris Limassol test
Daily Record journalist Robbie Copeland highlighted the “redemption arc” Jose Cifuentes is on at Rangers as they prepared for Thursday’s Europa League clash with Aris Limassol.
It has been a tough start to life in Scotland for the 24-year-old, who joined from Los Angeles FC in the summer. He has very much been used as a rotational player by Philippe Clement so far, but it seems as though his fortunes may be changing.
The midfielder’s start at the weekend against Aberdeen, and subsequent completion of the 90 minutes, suggests Cifuentes may be gaining the trust of his manager and the Gers faithful.
“From a rising star to one in recent decline, Jose Cifuentes has been a bit-part figure under Clement for the most part but his start at the weekend hinted he’s slowly beginning to win the boss over,” Copeland wrote for the Daily Record on Wednesday (29 November).
“A big Euro performance could be a big step in the Ecuadorian’s redemption arc.”
Shot at redemption
Following a reported £1.2million move from MLS outfit LAFC last summer, there were high expectations surrounding Cifuentes, especially with such an experienced CV at the age of 24.
The midfielder managed 35 goal involvements (15 goals & 20 assists) in 120 LAFC appearances while continuing to gain caps at international level with Ecuador.
With just five starts in Rangers’ opening 13 league games of the season, fans will be somewhat disappointed. However, the match against Aberdeen on Sunday marked his first league start in five matches, and it was a positive one as he helped the Gers to a point late on via a James Tavernier penalty.
His performances in European competitions are also something to note, claiming a starting spot in three of Rangers’ four Champions League matches, but a knock affecting his playtime in their Europa League outings.
There is no doubt that Cifuentes is a talented player. As Clement begins to trust him more, it is only a matter of time before the Ecuadorian becomes one of the first names of the teamsheet each week and finds his feet in Scottish football.
A few more goal contributions would be nice too.
In other Rangers news, Barry Ferguson has admitted that he is concerned about Ryan Jack’s latest injury update.