John Souttar wows again with Scotland, singled out despite Rangers struggles
Rangers have 11 players who are off on international duty at the moment.
Russell Martin will be hoping that they all come back fit as a crucial month lies ahead for Rangers.
Martin is under extreme scrutiny as Rangers remain winless in the Scottish Premiership.
With matches in three different competitions to come immediately after the international break, Martin will be hoping that John Souttar can lead his troops to better times at Ibrox.
John Souttar performs once more for Scotland
Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, Falkirk first team coach Stephen McGinn was full of praise for the 28-year-old after Scotland’s games against Denmark and Belarus.
McGinn said: “I thought he was excellent the other night, I thought him and Hanley defended everything really well.
“He was on the front foot the whole game, so I think he can be really pleased with his performance.”
Scotland’s win leaves them with four points from their opening two World Cup qualifying matches
Souttar dealt with an onslaught of Belarusian long balls during the match, which was played behind closed doors.
| Stat | Souttar vs Belarus |
| Pass accuracy (per cent) | 91 |
| Aerial duels (per cent) | 50 |
| Recoveries | 5 |
| Clearances | 3 |
This has been his second strong performance of the international break, with Souttar’s aggressive display against Denmark also earning plaudits.
Martin will be hopeful that Souttar’s confidence playing for his country can transform into better displays for Rangers.
Home games against Hearts, Hibernian and Genk in three different competitions are all must-win for Martin, and he will hope to count on Souttar’s leadership at the back during this period.
Souttar set for new centre-back partner in Derek Cornelius
Cornelius joined Rangers from Marseille on deadline day, with Martin in desperate need of defensive solidity.
Nasser Djiga has struggled in defence, and Cornelius’ experience is invaluable as Rangers look to get out of the rut that they’re in.
Cornelius’ athleticism and confidence when playing out from the back will be a huge bonus for Rangers, and Souttar will noticeably improve alongside a more assured centre-back partner.
Souttar will hope Cornelius can bring out the strong performances he has put in for Scotland at a club level.
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