Michael Beale has told Thursday’s press conference – as per the Rangers YouTube channel – that Rangers star Tom Lawrence is a “fantastic signing” and the Ibrox gaffer is “excited” to work with him, though injury is preventing that.
Lawrence, 29, joined Rangers on a free following Derby’s relegation to League One in the summer. The Wales star made a superb start to life in Glasgow – scoring three goals and laying on two assists in nine games for Rangers.
But, at the end of August, he picked up a long-term knee injury that has kept him out for six months. Beale says that he was close to a return, but has since picked up a setback in his rehab. He hopes to have Lawrence in the next few weeks.
Beale spoke about his excitement to work with the Wales attacker – but he will have to remain patient, with Lawrence yet to make his first outing for the Gers under Beale. He reassured Lawrence he will be a part of the side going forward.
“Tom’s a player I’ve seen come through at Man United as a young boy. I’ve seen him player internationally and play very well down in the Championship. In the early part of the season, he looked like a fantastic signing,” Beale said.
“At a really strong level. He has suffered a long-term injury since then. When he is back, he will be a part of this squad. Similar to Malik Tillman, he can play in the final third or midfield. I’m excited to work with him when he finally returns.”
Michael Beale says Rangers star Tom Lawrence is a fantastic signing
Lawrence’s early-season form, and indeed his performances in pre-season against the likes of West Ham and Spurs was impressive. Will Rangers get that player back straight away? Who knows. He might need time, and a pre-season.
But the ex-Derby man is a top, top player. Proven at a high level, with 23 caps for Wales. When the £23k-a-week star returns, it will be like a new signing and will hand Tillman with competition in that role. But it might not be until April.
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