Rangers’ 11-game unbeaten streak in the Europa League came to an end during a seven-goal thriller against Spartak Moscow.
The Gers took the lead three times in the first half but were unable to keep the hosts from equalising. Alfredo Morelos thought he had furthered their advantage but the flag was raised, and Spartak equalised shortly after. The Russian side eventually took the lead with half an hour remaining and held on for all three points despite James Tavernier striking the post late on.
Steven Gerrard blasted his side for basic defensive errors that allowed their opponents back into the game time and time again. The result leaves the group wide open, and Rangers have plenty of work to do to reach the knockout stages. The former Liverpool captain should be keeping a close eye on potential January signings that could give the Ibrox side a welcome boost in the New Year.
One man he should be keeping tabs on is Everton youngster – Kieran Dowell.
Valued at £2.7m by Transfermarkt, the 21-year-old is highly regarded at Goodison Park after joining the club’s youth academy at the age of seven. Dowell eventually penned a scholarship with the Toffees in 2014 and made his senior debut in the Europa League against Krasnodar. For the 2017/18 campaign, Dowell was loaned to Nottingham Forest and had an instant impact with the Reds before his form curtailed. Nevertheless, the youngster ended his debut season in the Championship with a respectable nine goals and four assists.
Dowell was expected to enjoy more playing time under Marco Silva as a result of his showings but is yet to feature in the Premier League this season. A loan move in January seems like the next move and Rangers should aim to bring the maestro to Ibrox. Averaging 1.6 key passes per game last season, Dowell could help Morelos score even more goals in attack and working with Gerrard could do wonders for his development.
This move should be a no-brainer for the Gers.
Rangers fans, thoughts?
