‘We hold what we have’ is the mantra at Ibrox as the transfer deadline comes and goes for another Summer. With that, Rangers have opted not to add to the seven players previously acquired despite some areas of concern in the squad.
The decision means that Rangers will proceed with an element of risk, ahead of a crucial period in the Premiership as well as the Champions League.
Two immediate worries relate to the right-wing and central defences positions. Scott Wright and Rabbi Matondo aren’t convincing with their delivery blighted by inconsistency. Then there is the need for an added goal threat across the front line.
Yes, at times the likes of Malik Tillman or Tom Lawrence will occupy an inverted role on the right, with the skipper James Tavernier marauding past them, but the issue still stands.
Gio van Bronckhorst’s team is also very light in central defence just now. An injury to Connor Goldson or James Sands would leave just Leon King as back-up – that’s it. Ben Davies is currently unavailable whilst Fil Helander and John Souttar are not returning anytime soon, due to injuries.
In terms of quality, Rangers still lack another pivotal figure in the middle of the pitch. An ‘8’ or box-to-box type, that player who can leave his mark on the game and produce the goods when required. That will likely take significant investment and is not a priority for now, especially with the profile of players signed.
Other doubts and risk are more prominent as stated above, it now remains to be seen what the outcome of the decision not to add further required quality will be.