Cyriel Dessers destroyed by Tam McManus after Rangers v Celtic
Tam McManus believes Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers showed a “lack of bottle” for not taking the penalty against Celtic on Sunday.
The Hoops beat their arch rivals in a penalty shootout to clinch the Scottish League Cup at Hampden Park on 15 December.
Dessers, who came off the bench, did not step up to take a penalty, even though Ridvan Yilmaz and Jack Butland took one.
McManus told PLZ Soccer on 16 December at 25:28: “I think it shows a real lack of bottle for Dessers. That’s all it is. That’s what you do as a forward. You think to yourself, ‘It’s an opportunity to go and score.’
“You’ve obviously had more practice than defenders and particularly goalkeepers. So I was stunned at that, and I can understand a lot of Rangers supporters being really disappointed in Dessers.”
Rangers must cash in on Cyriel Dessers in January
McManus’ critique of Dessers for not taking a penalty in the Scottish League Cup final seems spot on.
As a forward, the Nigerian had a golden opportunity to demonstrate leadership and prove his worth to the Gers squad by stepping up during the shootout.
Instead, his decision to let others take the shot, including a goalkeeper, reflects a significant lack of confidence at a critical juncture.
This incident not only disappointed many fans but also highlighted his current lack of form and perhaps his mental readiness for high-pressure situations.
Given his inconsistent performances and now this public display of hesitation, there is a compelling case for Rangers to consider selling him in January.
Moving him on could help the club rejuvenate the squad and possibly bring in a striker with the confidence and form to lead the line more convincingly.
In other Rangers news, a first-team player could now be ruled out for months, potentially even needing surgery.
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