Gers target “monster” with traits of Amoruso

Rangers have been linked with Elfsborg defender Joseph Okumu and with the profile of the Swedish league not exactly box office, finding out about the Kenyan international as been far from easy.

This is where social media and the world of football analysts comes in handy, Marc Lamberts – who has provided scouting reports for Vital Rangers before – has produced a visual based on Okumu’s defensive capabilities where, with six duels and over 70% success, he is one of the strongest in the league.

Joseph Okumu from Elfsborg is linked to Rangers. How well does he perform in defensive duels in Allsvenskan 2020? pic.twitter.com/WdoSk4E6dV

— Marc P. Lamberts (@lambertsmarc) April 3, 2021

Swedish football observer, Dennis Liljeberg, labelled Okumu a “monster” and, as the following radar confirms, he isn’t wrong, proving to be immense in the air and on the ground defensively, not only that but his ability to play progressive passes stands him in good stead should Rangers follow up their alleged interest.

Joseph Okumu – Physically imposing CB who was mightily impressive in his first full season with @IFElfsborg1904. He stands out especially with his ability to build from the back and strong anticipation to tackle or intercept. pic.twitter.com/2lQAPSsOQN

— Dennis Liljeberg (@SweFootDennis) March 30, 2021

He’s not afraid to take chances with his passing but then again neither was Lorenzo Amoruso or more recently, Connor Goldson, who regularly starts Rangers attacks with long diagonal passes to the flanks or by driving out of defence.

With many teams looking to build from the back, passing ability in defenders is highly relevant. Passing percentages can be useful but also misleading, instead I’ll be looking at progression as it gives us an idea of the players’ ability to add value with their passing and runs. pic.twitter.com/hw7y8lQ91A

— Dennis Liljeberg (@SweFootDennis) March 30, 2021

Okumu has impressed in his debut season in the Allsvenskan and it’s easy to see why…

.@IFElfsborg1904:s mittback Joseph Okumu har fått sitt genombrott i år – så här har det sett ut när han stoppat motståndare under säsongen 💪

🎥 Se höjdpunkter från #Allsvenskan här 👉 https://t.co/hkzGryjccx pic.twitter.com/XsQQ35lxCD

— Allsvenskan (@AllsvenskanSE) September 23, 2020

Having a fully functioning scouting and recruitment team in place now will see more players like Okumu being linked with a move to Rangers, relative unknowns who tick all the boxes on paper before being analysed in greater depth to see if they have what it takes to cope with the weight of wearing the famous Light Blue jersey.