The imminent transfer of James Sands from New York City to Rangers has raised a few points, one of which being “where will he play?”.
We already know that he is versatile and that he can play in defence or in midfield, social media analysts have compared him to both Sergio Busquets and Javi Martinez in terms of his movement and how he uses the ball but he has played most of his football at centre-half.
Until he pulls on the famous Light Blue shirt we won’t know exactly what Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s plans are for the 22-year old but there are a few things that we do know – and one of them is that we have beaten off a lot of competition to sign a quality player.
Rangers close to the signing of James Sands from NYC FC.
Will be an 18-month loan with the option to buy rather than an obligation to.
Rangers beaten German clubs & others from major leagues to his signature.
Played most at CB but can play 6, 8 or RB.https://t.co/rjeQtqnTFi
— Jordan Campbell (@JordanC1107) January 4, 2022
Sands was NYC’s young player of the year in their MLS winning campaign and his seven USA caps have all come in the last six-months, a player very much on an upward trajectory. The type of player Vital Rangers has identified that we should be looking at before.
The deal itself looks a good one too – obviously without knowing what the option to buy fee is – Ross Wilson negotiating an 18-month loan must have taken a bit of persuasion but gives us a great opportunity to assess whether or not Sands can become a specialist in one position or if he will forever be known as a utility player.
The Ibrox crowd very rarely allows for excuses like being unfamiliar in a role, you pull on the jersey and are expected to perform, we know he’s a winner, let’s see if he can bring success to Rangers