Michael Stewart wowed by ‘sensational’ Tom Lawrence in Rangers win on BBC Sportscene
Michael Stewart has hailed Tom Lawrence’s “sensational” goal as Rangers beat Kilmarnock 4-1 at Ibrox on Sunday 5 May.
Lawrence was introduced as a second-half substitute, with the Gers leading 2-1, and scored his side’s third goal just three minutes after coming on.
Stewart was impressed with the quality of the 30-year-old’s strike, with the attacking midfielder producing a couple of clever touches to escape his marker before lashing in from distance.
Speaking on BBC Sportscene (5 May), Stewart said: “This was a sensational goal.
“Todd Cantwell didn’t look particularly happy when he was going off, but I think he needs to recognise [that] it’s about the collective team and Tom Lawrence coming on, he’s got great ability, no doubt about that.
“It’s just been a real frustrating time for him in a Rangers jersey with the injuries that he’s had and just trying to get up to speed.
“But this is a class goal from start to finish. When he picks that ball up – first touch to knock it round a defender, second one to get back onto his right foot and open up the goal, and then the third into the corner. I mean the goalkeeper’s got absolutely no chance. Absolutely class from Tom Lawrence.”
Tom Lawrence fights for Rangers future at Ibrox
Lawrence’s impact this season has been limited due to the injury issues he struggled with before the turn of the year, making just seven Scottish Premiership appearances before January.
He has featured more regularly this calendar year but has only completed the full 90 minutes once – in the 0-0 draw with Dundee at Dens Park on 17 April – often coming on as a substitute or being taken off.
His fitness is most likely the primary cause of his limited game-time, with head coach Philippe Clement clearly exercising caution with his attacking midfielder.
However, his ability is clear and the sheer quality of his goal against Kilmarnock could perhaps persuade the Belgian manager to hand Lawrence a start ahead of Todd Cantwell in the upcoming Old Firm derby against Celtic at Parkhead on 11 May – a match which is likely to decide the title.
Whether he is used from the start or off the bench, Rangers will surely need Lawrence’s quality if they are to add another trophy to their cabinet this season.
In other Rangers news, a regular Clement starter is now going to sign a deal to leave the club.
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