Rangers Blogs

Rangers strike blow to Hibs as strategy pays off

|
Image for Rangers strike blow to Hibs as strategy pays off

Ahead of tonight’s clash at Easter Road, Rangers have already weakened Hibs for the game in a move that shows a transfer strategy paying dividends.

Hibs will be without Jamie Murphy, who has been a key perfromer for the Edinburgh club in recent months, due to the structure of the agreement that sent the player from Ibrox along the M8.

When the move was confirmed in August, it was stated that a season-long loan deal would be followed up by a 12 month contract for the 31 year old, meaning he can’t play against what is still his ‘parent club’, for now.

It is exactly the same type of deal which saw Ross McCrorie make the switch north to Aberdeeen.

What this shows is shrewd plannning and foresight from Rangers in this very crucial season.

Players such as Murphy and McCrorie have been sent out the door at Ibrox but in a way that protects Rangers interests in the short term, whilst they play against rivals and other opponents in the league.

There was also the contribution of Rangers Robby McCrorie, on-loan at Livingston in Celtic’s recent 2-2 draw at Almondvale which brings further context to the overall strategy from Steven Gerrard, Ross Wilson and co.

Jamie Murphy scored one and assisted another goal against Celtic for Hibs earlier in the season but that won’t be a possibility in tonight’s game.

The home side go into tonight’s encounter on the back of a very disappointing 3-0 reverse against St. Johnstone in the League Cup semi-final.

In their last five games, Jack Ross’ team have only one win to their credit.

They are going through a lean spell and the pressure is on their players to turn their form around.

Share this article