In the aftermath of Rangers’ eventful draw with Celtic last Monday, Michael Beale reiterated his desire to strengthen his group in the January transfer window.
The Englishman is looking to make two or three additions - and he continues to stress that he will not contemplate padding a bloated squad. He wants starters, ready-made first-team players that can make an immediate impact.
During his brief time in Govan, Beale has stated his belief in the squad when everyone is available. He still awaits a full complement of staff, but lacklustre performances will have weakened his unwavering faith in the group he inherited. Results have improved, but familiar faces continue to disappoint.
Following Liverpool’s defeat to Brentford earlier this week, Jamie Carragher generated discussion with his withering assessment of the Reds' ageing midfield. He lamented the lack of investment over a prolonged period, and while Liverpool operates in a different financial world, a similar accusation of neglect can be directed towards Rangers.
In recent years, the midfield base has been Ryan Jack, Glen Kamara, Steven Davis and John Lundstram. The quintet have been excellent additions at minimal cost, but the engine room has needed refreshing for some time. Deterioration in midfield performances has increased vulnerability and led to a lack of control in games this season.
In Beale’s 12 months away from Glasgow, the midfield area remained largely untouched. Personnel may be the same, but much has changed; Jack has suffered further injury issues, while Kamara’s confidence after being out of favour has plummeted. Lundstram has toiled recently, and Davis’ season is over due to a knee complaint.
James Sands joined the club on an 18-month loan last January. The 22-year-old was initially viewed as a midfielder, but due to injuries, he has been used as an auxiliary centre-back. Even during rare appearances in his preferred position, though, he has failed to prove his worth. He lacks an outstanding attribute and is not the answer to Rangers' midfield ills.
The midfield has declined to such an extent that a single addition cannot rectify the problem. Multiple signings are needed to rejuvenate and replenish a dysfunctioning part of the team - and it will take more than one transfer window to fix. The midfield has been running on empty, and reinforcements were required yesterday.
Jack, Kamara and Lundstram are at ease with the game in front of them, with the trio content to orchestrate from deep and recycle possession. The midfield lacks variety - all the players possess similar qualities - and an old-fashioned box-to-box player would supplement the current options. A lack of pace and power is also an issue, but sourcing a technically proficient athlete on a tight budget is easier said than done.
Beale has, perhaps, deliberately outlined his January desires. The 42-year-old seeks starters that can immediately impact his battle-weary group and contribute for the remainder of this season and beyond. He is not interested in a short-term fix, and an overdue rebuild is about to begin.
Rangers’ recruitment woes over the last few seasons have been well documented, and they cannot afford another unfruitful trading window. According to the manager, fresh faces are close to being confirmed, next week should be busy at Ibrox, and a new midfielder will surely top the arrivals list.
Monday's Old Firm draw effectively ended Rangers' faint hopes of mounting a title challenge, and although cup competitions remain of utmost importance, one eye will already be on the summer and next season.
*18+ | BeGambleAware | Odds Subject To Change
