John Robertson slams Cyriel Dessers on BBC after what he did v Hearts
Cyriel Dessers was labelled as “the difference” between Rangers and Celtic in the Scottish Premiership title race this season by former Hearts forward John Robertson.
Rangers were held to a 3-3 draw at Hearts following a late comeback by the hosts at Tynecastle, but it could have been much different had Dessers tucked home an early chance set up by Ross McCausland.
Speaking on BBC SportSound coverage, (18 May, 12:54) Robertson said: “We’re strikers – get it in the back of the net, it doesn’t matter how.
“I don’t think 22 is a great total for a Rangers striker, a Rangers striker should be looking at 25 plus.
“There’s no doubt Dessers could have the 30 goals that Lawrence Shankland’s got – at a canter.
“But that’s the difference between Celtic and Rangers: Celtic have been ruthless in front of goal. Dessers hasn’t.”
Rangers will rue missed Dessers chances this season
Rangers did push Celtic close for large swathes of this season, but their total collapse of consistency and form over the past six weeks has seen their Glasgow rivals pull away to seal a third-straight Premiership crown by a comfortable eight points.
Dessers’ early chance saw him fire a tame shot straight at Zander Clark when it seemed easier for the Gers striker to score, and just minutes later, Hearts captain Shankland showed what being “ruthless” means by dispatching his 31st league goal of the season.
Robertson’s assessment acknowledged that James Tavernier taking free-kicks and penalties for Philippe Clement’s side has denied Dessers the chance to score more goals, but the upcoming transfer window could certainly see the Gers manager look for more reinforcements up front.
The Rangers number nine did score twice against Hearts to send his side into the Scottish Cup Final last month, and when they face Celtic at Hampden Park next weekend (25 May), every single light blues fan will be hoping that Dessers can find his shooting boots once again.
In other Rangers, an award-winning British manager may now be open to taking over the Ibrox managerial hot seat from Philippe Clement.
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