Daniel Lewis

Thu 21 December 2023 16:40, UK

Kieran Dowell is a real talent who has the ability to become a more regular starter under Philippe Clement at Rangers, according to Kenny Miller.

The 26-year-old was handed just a second start of the Scottish Premiership campaign in Wednesday’s (20 December) 2-0 win over St Johnstone.

Dowell caught the eye in the routine victory at Ibrox with his ability to break up play and keep things ticking over in holding midfield.

Speaking on BBC Scotland [20 December, 22:07pm], Miller praised the Englishman for the way he slotted seamlessly into the side.

“I’ve watched him for a number of years and I think there’s talent there,” former Rangers striker Miller said.

“His vision and his passing – he’s got the ability to break the lines with his passing.

“There’s no doubt that he was one of the better performers tonight. He’s certainly not done his chances any harm.”

Steady job

The holding midfield positions at Rangers appear to be cursed right now, with John Lundstram the latest to sustain an injury.

Dowell was given the full 90 minutes alongside Lundstram and then Dujon Sterling, who is himself being used in a makeshift position.

As per Sofascore, no Gers player registered more interceptions (two), while his three key passes were bettered only by James Tavernier (five).

It was hardly a performance to take the breath away, but it was steady and it was effective.

Philippe Clement used the St Johnstone match as a chance to heavily rotate, and Dowell was one of those who showed he can be relied on.

That was not the case for everyone (Ridvan Yilmaz was underwhelming, for example), and Dowell must now continue to take his opportunities.

If injuries and suspensions continue to strike in that area at the current rate, it may well be that the former Norwich City ace becomes a regular feature under Clement.

In other Rangers news, a BBC Sport pundit was stunned by something “absolutely ridiculous” he saw in the Gers’ win over St Johnstone.