The Rangers defender produced a committed performance for the Ibrox side tonight.
Steven Gerrard’s side earned a brilliant 1-1 draw away to Portuguese giants Porto in the Europa League, boosting the Gers’ hopes of progression to the knockout stages of the competition.
Rangers did threaten in an attacking sense throughout the 90 minutes, but they also had to rely on stout defending to see the game through.
Porto threatened in the late stages but interventions from Helander and goalkeeper Allan McGregor prevented any disappointment for the Scottish side.
McCann was impressed by the Swedish international in particular, believing he could have been the best performer on the pitch.
As quoted by BBC Sport (24/10 live match page, 19:52), he said: “Rangers have earned their luck. Helander has been absolutely superb and he could be man of the match, a crucial interception there and two crucial saves from McGregor.
“I thought that performance from Rangers was outstanding. Their discipline was great and the game plan was perfect. There was times Rangers passed Porto off the pitch. All round, there wasn’t a failure. I think Steven Gerrard will be positively bubbling.”
Justified praise?
Helander was certainly a crucial cog in the Rangers machine and McCann is right to pick him out for particular praise.
As stats from WhoScored.com demonstrate, he produced a mammoth defensive display.
Making 11 clearances, he did not give Porto much thrift in the final third at all. Winning three aerial battles, making two interceptions and a tackle, he was resolute throughout the 90 minutes.
His 93% pass success rate also shows he was accurate in possession. It’s a rate higher than all but one of the opposition players.
The display should prove to be a big confidence boost for the summer signing who has had his ups and downs since joining.
Can he now make the central defensive position his own?
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