Philippe Clement is picking his Rangers team just now based on who is available, who is fit, and who has the least amount of strapping holding them together
The injury list had John Lundstram added to it in mid-week and the Gers boss must be frustrated at not being able to work with his squad properly on the training ground.
New faces are definitely needed at Ibrox but where will Philippe Clement be looking to strengthen for Rangers.
Three areas Philippe Clement has to target for Rangers
One report has suggested that left-back and striker are where he is prioritising first.
Personally, I just don’t see it.
We have two international left-backs and Dujon Sterling also capable of deputising there.
It’s not a necessity.
Should one of Ridvan Yilmaz or Borna Barisic leave, then it would make sense but there are other areas that need to be looked at first.
Striker is definitely one of them.
Philippe Clement has already seen two names linked with Rangers, one being Lawrence Shankland and the other Fabio Silva.
You couldn’t get two more different players.
Whether on loan or permanently though, it’s clear that reinforcements are needed with both Danilo and Kemar Roofe injured.
Cyriel Dessers has been much improved but this has seen his name added to Nigeria’s 40-man African Cup of Nations long list, if he is selected for the tournament we will really be struggling.
I’d rather have Silva on loan out of the names mentioned and reassess in the summer rather than panic buying now.
Philippe Clement also needs depth on Rangers wings.
Rabbi Matondo doesn’t seem to be able to stay fit, Scott Wright has one goal in 18-months and we can’t put all our eggs in Ross McCausland’s basket.
It’s an area where we need proven and experienced quality or we recall Ianis Hagi and play him on the right-hand side as he did so often the last time we won the Scottish Premiership.
The other area has to be defensive midfield.
John Lundstram picking up a knock has caused a semi-meltdown in the Rangers support.
There is nobody else capable of playing that role and Ryan Jack can’t be relied upon as his contract ticks down either.
A move for Connor Barron at Aberdeen who could be available on a cut-price deal or Eliot Matazo, who Philippe Clement worked with at Monaco would both be perfect for Rangers.
The Gers gaffer needs reinforcements but he also needs quality that can be relied upon to be available, over to you Nils Koppen.
