Rangers ended the Premiership season with a further boost of confidence and momentum as the youngsters turned on the style.
It was a welcome introduction to the supporters for many B team talents, but for other more senior players, this could well have been their last Rangers appearance.
For different reasons, Steven Davis, Cedric Itten and Jack Simpson face an uncertain future with an Ibrox exit more than likely.
Possibly the last we see this legend in a Rangers shirt, but hopefully a wee bit more to come. https://t.co/syG1WPG04u
— Graeme Hanna (@graeme818) May 14, 2022
At 37, Steven Davis is still contributing and playing his part. An icon for club and country, the Northern Ireland captain was given the armband today in the absence of James Tavernier and he kept things ticking over in midfield in his usual industrious way.
He still has something to offer with time yet in his legs but Davis isn’t going to play 25-30 games next term as well as potentially blocking the pathway of the likes of Charlie McCann and Alex Lowry. It could well be time for ‘Davo’ to bow out and what better way than following a unique double. Whilst he may not start, hopefully there is still a part for the man to play over the two cup finals which will end Rangers season.
For Cedric Itten and Jack Simpson, it is clear that their futures lie away from Glasgow. The Swiss striker showed up well today, including his header equaliser, but he needs to move on and play regular football for the sake of his career – a return to his native Switzerland or Germany appears likely.
Similar for Simpson, a player with some Premier League experience, who has never truly proved himself at Rangers and will leave in the close season.
Extensions
Aaron Ramsey and Amad Diallo will return to their parent clubs, Juventus and Manchester United, after next week.
Unfortunately, the Welshman’s fitness and condition is not conducive to the tough demands at Ibrox with a parting of the ways set to come. His ability is beyond doubt but the lack of minutes on the pitch speaks for itself meaning that Rangers will not pursue an extended deal.
As for Amad, he could be back, but that will not be confirmed any time soon. There is doubt and disagreement as to how suited he is for Rangers with inconsistency still affecting his game. For all that he was good on Wednesday against Ross County, the Ivorian was quite erratic today with his play.
The other player in question is Leon Balogun, out of contract at the end of the season. The Nigerian could yet be retained as back-up with so much uncertainty over the central defenders at the club. As well as Simpson, Connor Goldson and Fil Helander could be departing. John Souttar is incoming from Hearts, with the expectation of another senior central defender to join him.
Balogun will feature in the squad over the next week so still has a chance of making a contribution toward success.