Sinner to saint for Rangers, old dogs can learn new tricks

I’ve always been a great believer of giving credit where it is due but also that no player should be immune from criticism.

I gave Allan McGregor both barrels last weekend after the shambles that was the 121st minute corner against St Johnstone, and I wasn’t the only one that felt this way, however, this week, it’s safe to say that he has more than redeemed himself.

With the scores at 0-0, the Gers number one pulled off a stunning save from Mohamed Elyounoussi’s 25-yard strike that was heading for the top corner, he had no right to get there but his finger tips were enough to guide it onto the bar and away to safety.

This is going under appreciated, what a save pic.twitter.com/a5YV8KRZz7

— DaCharlie 🐧 (@Charlie1872_) May 2, 2021

 

This wasn’t his only involvement in the game and what was noticeable is that you can teach an old dog new tricks, or at least, remind him of ones he used to know.

He was more aggressive at set pieces, coming for corners and free-kicks, choosing to punch the ball clear on a few occasions. There had also been a small adjustment in our set-up in that Connor Goldson was protecting the edge of the six-yard box, however, his biggest role was to provide McGregor with the space to dominate his area.

It’s the latest sign that when the coaches and analysts see something that can be improved upon, the players don’t just shrug it off as if they know better, being able to acknowledge your weaknesses, even at the age of 39, is what makes McGregor the goalkeeper he is – the best in Scotland and one of the best in Britain.