Ryan Kent’s numbers will always be a cause for conversation, last season his double digit haul of goals and assists was reflective of a successful season, however, it could be argued that he has been more consistent this term after returning to full fitness despite scoring just three goals across all competitions – his latest against Red Star Belgrade being worth a pound or two.
He has already matched his tally of 15 assists though and there is no reason why, given his current form, that he won’t add to this, but he is the sort of player that it is more than just his raw numbers that makes him so important.
On so many occasions he will draw players in and create space for others, he might not always play the final pass but, frequently, he will be the man who sparks an attack, an aspect of his game that has caught Alex McLeish’s eye, as told to Football Insider:
“I think it’s important that Ryan Kent keeps playing. Again, we talk about the nucleus of the team.
“I think he’s vital to the team at this very moment and when the prizes are being handed out towards the finish of the season.
“When I saw him a couple of weeks ago against Aberdeen, first five minutes, he got on the ball and I said: ‘This guy is in the groove.’
“I felt that day that Rangers, the players, his teammates, didn’t give him enough of the ball. He was in a hungry manner. I think he’s continued with that form since.
“That’s why he’s really a vital cog in the wheel in this run-in.”
McLeish is right, Rangers are far from a one man team but Kent can pick the ball up on the half way line with nothing seemingly on and end up in and around the opposition box causing chaos, in some games, he has looked like our only player capable of creating something – against Red Star he was ten yards inside his own half when he first received the ball.
What would you rather win?
Scottish Premiership title
Europa League
In terms of his goals, he’s just having one of those seasons. Defenders making goal line clearances and blocks, goalkeepers making saves and near misses have all contributed to his poor tally, I’d be very surprised if he continues to fire blanks though, he’s simply too good a player not to find goal scoring form again, it wouldn’t be a bad time to hit a purple patch.