McAuley started his first match for Rangers since joining in September.
Steven Thompson has told BBC Sportscene that he was impressed by Gareth McAuley’s first start and 90 minutes in a Rangers shirt as the Gers beat Livingston 3-0 at Ibrox.
McAuley joined Rangers on a one-year deal in September after being released by West Bromwich Albion in the summer. He has since been getting fit after undergoing no form of pre-season training.
The 38-year-old veteran did come on for a minute against Spartak Moscow, and the second 45 of the 7-1 Motherwell win. But on Saturday, he started his first match for Steven Gerrard’s side.
Though Livi had chances, McAuley looked classy and assured at the back and former Rangers man Thompson was very impressed with the defender’s display – expecting him to have an impact on and off the pitch.
“I thought he strolled through the game,” Thompson said. “He made it look very comfortable. He brings an assuredness, a calmness to Rangers’ defence. He has played at an extremely high level, over 70 caps for Northern Ireland as well.
“He’s going to be massive in the Rangers changing room. You won’t only see this calmness and quality on the pitch. A player with that knowledge to pass onto the younger players is invaluable. He was excellent yesterday, a top defender.”
Rangers were lucky not to go behind as Livi hit the post at 0-0, before Daniel Candeias headed home a pinpoint Glenn Middleton corner. Alfredo Morelos notched his 16th of the season, before Scott Arfield completed the rout.
The Gers need to prepare quickly for one of their biggest tests in recent seasons, as they welcome La Liga side Villarreal to Ibrox in a match they must get something from if they are to qualify from Group G of the Europa League.
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