Nasser Djiga gives Danny Rohl plenty to think about despite Rangers’ loss vs Celtic
Nasser Djiga could be set for an extensive run in the Rangers starting line-up after impressing against Celtic on Sunday.
The Burkina Faso star has been overtaken by John Souttar in recent weeks in Danny Rohl’s plans; however, the Wolves loanee has done his case no harm in the latest Old Firm.
Much of the talk will be on the result and the scenes on the pitch following full-time, but Djiga’s display should not be overshadowed.
Djiga was handed a start in Rangers’ loss against Celtic, although he was eventually substituted off the pitch in extra time.
However, now the defender must surely be in Rohl’s thinking for a back-to-back start in Rangers’ next match after rising to the occasion.
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How Nasser Djiga made a case to start Rangers’ next game
Celtic’s attack was woeful, but that should not take away from the work that the G51 outfit’s defence produced at Ibrox.
Over the course of the 120 minutes, the Gers held Celtic to just one shot on goal.
Unfortunately, it ended up being Rangers’ own wastefulness up front that was ultimately the root cause of their Scottish Cup exit.
However, Djiga, who had started just one of the last five games for Rohl, had slotted back into the starting lineup seamlessly, and that surely gives the German plenty to think about now.
The Burkinabe international looked both confident and composed in the backline, he was willing to show for the ball and present himself as a passing option.
His early days at Ibrox may have been patchy, but he has certainly begun to come into his own.
What is Rangers’ best defensive pairing?
A selection of Emmanuel Fernandez and Djiga may be Rohl’s best pairing at Ibrox.
The duo offer physicality, pace and excellent defensive qualities. The two centre-backs had a field day against Celtic, and they pretty much mopped up any danger that came their way.
Fernandez and Djiga are both dominant ball winners, which is something that Souttar can lack at times, as shown by their ground duel success as per Sofascore.
| Player | Ground Duel Success |
| Nasser Djiga | 72% |
| Emmanuel Djiga | 65% |
| John Souttar | 59% |
Djiga, in particular, completely outshines Souttar in that regard.
The Scotsman might have been in favour recently, but it would not be a shock to see that change once more in Govan.
Rohl will have a lot to think about before Rangers face St Mirren on Sunday, 15 March.
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