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Gerrard has solution to “lack of spark” if he makes tactical change to accommodate new recruits

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Image for Gerrard has solution to “lack of spark” if he makes tactical change to accommodate new recruits

The arrival of both Kemar Roofe and Cedric Itten for sizeable transfer fees has shown a real statement of intent from Steven Gerrard and the Rangers board and it now gives the Gers gaffer serious options in his forward department.

So far in both pre-season and the first domestic game of the season it has been Ryan Kent, Alfredo Morelos and Ianis Hagi that have occupied the attacking berths, however, with midfield creativity and a “lack of spark” previously an issue, Gerrard is now presented with an additional option – should he wish to use it.

Joe Aribo has been given more license to attack playing in his deeper midfield role but it was still a surprise to see his average position placing him as the furthest most Rangers player against Aberdeen in the season opener.

Interestingly though – and perhaps predicatbly – Ryan Jack and Glen Kamara occupied similar roles in which the Light Blues dominated possession, although both players rarely give the ball away and give the back four decent protection, they are not known for their ability to make defence splitting passes, despite being more than capable of it.

One player who is capable of picking a pass – with either foot – is Hagi, he appears to have a pretty much free role across the front three at the moment, but given his passing ability and in games when Rangers control the vast majority of the ball, there is scope to see him occupy a deeper role and rotate with Aribo in supporting the attack.

Should Gerrard experiment with Hagi in a deeper role?

Yes

Yes

No

No

Jack and Kamara were the deepest midfielders against Aberdeen but still spent large quantities of the game no more than 10-20 metres outside of the opposition box, having a player with Hagi’s vision in this position could see Gerrard get the best out of the likes of Roofe and Itten.

How the Gers gaffer introduces and uses his new signings is going to be key towards whether or not his side can sustain a title challenge throughout the whole campaign with all eyes on Ibrox at the weekend, when they are available for selection for the first time.

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