New Rangers boss Steven Gerrard takes to his Ibrox desk on Friday, and transfers will be at the forefront of his mind.
Steven Gerrard’s first thoughts when he takes to his Rangers desk at Ibrox on Friday will be transfers. The club need serious improvement if they are to catch Celtic, and the transfer window holds the best chance of delivering that.
Gerrard has already given his blessing for signings Scott Arfield, Allan McGregor and Jamie Murphy on a permanent basis, and plenty more newbies are expected to move to Ibrox.
Signing proven first-team quality is key if the Gers are to catch Brendan Rodgers’ side next season, or at least finish in second place in the Scottish Premiership table. But Gerrard must also consider youth.
Rangers boast plenty of young stars to have made their breakthrough into the side in recent years – Jamie Barjonas, Ross McCrorie, Ryan Hardie, David Bates and Myles Beerman to name just a few.
But Gerrard should cast his net wide, and consider signing a few exciting young Scottish stars to give Rangers the platform to build alongside the instant impact of more experienced professionals.
It should see the former Liverpool and England legend consider 16-year-old St. Johnstone striker John Robertson, who made two appearances after the split for Tommy Wright’s side in the top tier of Scottish football.
Able to play out wide or indeed up front, St. Johnstone head of youth Alistair Stevenson told The Courier believes Robertson draws similarities with Celtic fan favourite Leigh Griffiths: ““I liken John to Leigh Griffiths and Jason Cummings. He has something about him.”
Rangers already boast plenty of options up front, with Alfredo Morelos fighting for a place alongside loanee Cummings and Eduardo Herrera. But Cummings’ loan is set to expire, while young star Hardie’s contract is set to expire.
For the sake of the club’s future and ability to build, Gerrard must target youth and Robertson should be at the top of his shortlist.
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