Under Michael Beale, the front three would change from game to game hoping that, eventually, something would stick and he could get Rangers firing again, he didn’t but Philippe Clement has.
Against Sparta Prague we saw a front three of Abdallah Sima, Danilo and Todd Cantwell, an attack that is balanced in terms of physical and technical
Rangers have finally found the right formula and Philippe Clement has a forward line that he can rely on.
Attack has always been the best form of defence and they are all more than happy to do the hard yards too.
All three were tireless in their efforts against the Czechs and were rewarded for their shift.
In Abdallah Sima, he has raw pace and athleticism but also a player who can score almost any type of goal.
Back post runs, headers after coming inside to hit the penalty spot or the spectacular from long range, we’ve seen them all.
Todd Cantwell is a maverick.
Rangers FC v AC Sparta Praha: Group C – UEFA Europa League 2023/24
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
The sort of player who needs to be given greater attacking freedom to get the best out of him and playing off the right-hand side allows him that.
Shown by his goal, he is more than comfortable on either foot and driving inside to link play with others creates space for one of Rangers other main attacking threats – James Tavernier.
As for Danilo, Rangers have a number nine who can lead the line, bring others into the game and score goals.
The Brazilian striker, like Sima, has shown that he has every type of goal in his armoury.
There will be games when Rangers want to play with a different approach and players like Rabbi Matondo and Tom Lawrence will more than play their part.
Until then the dynamic trio will more than do.
It’s just frustrating that Michael Beale couldn’t see it too.
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