Rangers’ second leg against St. Joseph’s on Thursday night is the perfect opportunity for Steven Gerrard to see what Greg Docherty can do.
After picking up a thumping 4-0 win in Gibraltar, Rangers are on the verge of progression to the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League.
The first test for Gerrard’s team in 2019/20 went off without a hitch and although the opposition obviously wasn’t the strongest they’ll face this season, there were positive signs the squad is gelling into a competitive unit.
The return leg in Glasgow this Thursday is now a chance for the Rangers boss to bring some of his fringe players into the equation and give them a chance to shine in front of an expectant home support.
Realistically the Gers have already put the tie to bed so there is little risk in turning to players that have barely featured under Gerrard to date.
In fact there’s one man who deserves a starting spot who hasn’t played once in competitive action since the Liverpool icon arrived – Greg Docherty.
The former Hamilton star signed for Rangers in January 2018 when Graeme Murty was still in charge and went on to make 14 appearances in the second half of that season.
Gerrard though wasted little time last summer in farming him out to English League One side Shrewsbury Town on a development loan, where he shone as one of their stand-out performers.
Docherty made 50 appearances for the Shrews, scoring an impressive 10 goals, assisting 11 more and winning club player of the season awards.
As loans go, it could barely have been more successful and he’s returned to Rangers to fight for his place, passionately speaking about his desire to play regularly at Ibrox back in April.
Although involved in pre-season, he’s yet to be tested in a meaningful match and Gerrard must now give him that chance on Thursday.
To be successful at Rangers you simply must be able to cope with the pressure of playing in front of a big crowd at Ibrox.
Docherty deserves the opportunity to show he can do that.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
