Abdallah Sima blow at Rangers as ‘phenomenal’ Ibrox view shared after setback
We’re delighted to welcome former Ibrox star Derek Ferguson as our exclusive Rangers columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points in Govan…
Derek Ferguson is “gutted” that the “phenomenal” Abdallah Sima will be unavailable for Rangers but is delighted that he gets to represent Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The on-loan Brighton forward has been in great for Rangers this season and has proven to be one of the consistent success stories from the woeful summer recruitment under former boss Michael Beale.
It was confirmed on 29 December (Football Senegal) that Sima had made the final cut for his country for the tournament, which takes place between 13 January and 11 February.
Senegal are among the favourites for glory for the tournament, which is taking place in the Ivory Coast, and former Rangers man Ferguson – speaking exclusively to Ibrox News – rued the absence of a player who has 15 goals in all competitions this season.
“It’s a toughie, of course you’re pleased for the guy from a personal point of view but from a Rangers point of view he’s going to be a big miss because, let’s not make any bones about it, he’s been sensational,” Ferguson told Ibrox News.
“I just love the guy’s attitude, he’s been asked to play different roles under the manager and you don’t hear him bleating about it he doesn’t spit the dummy out, he just gets on with the job in hand.
“I saw him in some of the games in Europe I thought he was phenomenal, he was playing left-back at times but you realise it’s about the team it’s not about individuals.
“I think the manager loves that but he will be a big miss. His goal against Kilmarnock, I thought it was sensational, it came at an awkward height but his reaction and technique on the volley it was terrific.
“But I just think it’s his attitude all around. He doesn’t feel sorry for himself, he makes mistakes like anybody does but he just gets on with it and I just love the pace, the power and the finishes he’s produced of late.
“So he will be a big miss. I’m glad from a personal point of view but gutted he’s going to be away for a period of time.”
In other Rangers news, a new transfer claim on an Ibrox-linked player has emerged.