‘Atrocious… not good enough’ – Rangers star Jefte called out after what he has just done
Rangers defender Jefte was not at the races in the 2-1 loss to Viktoria Plzen on Tuesday evening.
Russell Martin trusted the left-back to start the crucial Champions League clash, and it was almost the ex-Southampton man’s undoing in Czechia.
Luckily, the Ibrox outfit held on after their commanding 3-0 victory on home soil to progress to the final round of qualification, where they will meet Club Brugge again.
However, the Brazilian’s display has given Martin a decision to make, with Max Aarons potentially waiting in the wings.
Jefte slammed after Rangers defeat to Plzen
Jefte endured a miserable night in Prague as he reminded Martin of the issues that kept him out of the starting line-up when the campaign started.
- Won 0/2 tackles against Plzen
- Won 1/3 aerial duels (33% success rate)
- Made four interceptions and recoveries
Scottish Daily Mail reporter Gary Keown did not spare any punches when rating the 21-year-old’s display, handing him a two out of 10.
Writing in the print edition of the newspaper (page 71, 13 August), he said: “Atrocious at the opener when losing Memic and all over the place as Plzen pushed in the latter stages. Not good enough.”
Rangers have Jefte dilemma on their hands
Jefte is reportedly in talks for a return to his homeland with Palmeiras, with a potential fee of between £4.3million and £5.1m for the Gers.
At this point, it may be best to let him depart; he has never really been able to force a permanent starting berth in Govan as a result of inconsistent performances.
However, that would be a risk, as Ridvan Yilmaz would be left as the only senior option on the left side of defence.
The Turkish full-back has also been linked with a return to his homeland, with his former club Besiktas showing heavy interest in the Rangers man.
Aarons is an option to play on the left flank, but he is much better suited to the right, to challenge captain James Tavernier for a place in the team.
If they did allow Jefte to leave, they would need to enter the market for a new left-back, as they would be severely lacking in that department.
It is absolutely vital that Martin’s squad is not left with significant holes as they try to forge a European journey and catch Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.
Their title hopes are already on the brink after a dismal start to the league campaign; having no depth in the position could end them.
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