Tom Lawrence must start v Ross County, Rangers ‘Match-winner’ missed at Ibrox
Despite what turned out to be a comfortable 2-0 victory over Ayr United in the Scottish Cup on Saturday 10 February, Rangers seemed to be missing a midfield presence.
Despite their lower standing, Ayr found more success than expected through their midfield as counter-attacks were constantly on the cards.
The midfield seemed to stabilise in the closing stages, with Philippe Clement replacing Ryan Jack with John Lundstram for the last 20 minutes, but Tom Lawrence was nowhere to be seen as he was rested.
Rangers must recall Tom Lawrence at Ibrox
In hindsight, it was nearly a mistake to leave Lawrence out of the matchday squad. However, Rangers were always going to get over the line against the Championship side.
Having returned from injury, the Welshman is one of the strongest performers for Clement and should be utilised against Ross County on Wednesday 14 February, with a spot at the top of the Scottish Premiership table at stake.
Ian Durrant has previously labelled the former Derby County star as a “match-winner”, known for his intelligence and skill, something that would work well in midfield tonight.
Old Firm rivals Celtic are three points above Rangers – a far cry from the gap between the two sides during Michael Beale’s reign at Ibrox up until October. And currently with a game in hand, the momentum has officially swung to Rangers’ side.
If Clement wants to field his strongest side against The Staggies, Lawrence must be involved in midfield. The attacker has shifted into a more balanced role since signing for Rangers in July 2022, but injuries have hindered his consistency.
In almost two years at Ibrox, he has only managed to make 25 appearances but has played a much more starring role this season than his last, having made 11 appearances so far in between injuries.
On his day, the 30-year-old is one of the best midfielders in the team, even despite having to adapt from the wing position and attacking midfield. Lawrence partnered with Lundstram, should be the midfield combination announced in the starting XI ahead of the Ross County game.
In other Rangers news, John Hartson has been wowed by the club’s recruitment.
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