Every close season we end up in the same place: a long list of names, and the temptation is to write “sell” beside most of them and start again. I get it. But for me, any sensible Rangers refresh has to be two things at once. Yes, be ruthless where needed. But also accept we can’t move everyone on, and we absolutely have to get more out of what’s already here.
Who I’d keep, and who I’d move on
In goals, I’m keeping Butland and moving Kelly on. That feels like a straightforward one.
At the back, it gets a bit messier. I wouldn’t renew Tav’s contract, and I’d keep Sterling but only look at a new deal if his injury record improves. For the loanees, I’d send Aarons and Djiga back, and do the same with Cornelius. Fernandez I’d keep, and Souttar I’d keep too, but only if the price is right. Nsiala is a wait-and-see because I’ve not seen enough to make a proper call.
On the left side, I’d keep Meghoma because he should improve, but I still want another left-back in the building to properly push him. Competition is healthy. Rangers without it tend to drift.
Midfield: quality is there, influence isn’t
This is where my frustration really sits. I’d move Rothwell on. Aasgaard too, because for all the decent attributes, he doesn’t affect games enough and there isn’t enough real creativity. Diomande would go as well, and Dowell is a sell or release situation.
I’d keep Barron. With Cameron, I’d give him next season to show what he’s about. Raskin is one I’d try to get back to his best and, for me, you hold fire on any big decision until after the World Cup.
Gassama stays for now, but he has to offer more. Antman is the definition of “there’s a player in there”, so I’d give him another season and try to actually coach the best out of him.
Attack: decisions, but not panic
Out wide, Matondo would be one I’d move on. Moore, I’d be happy with another season on loan. And with Finley Curtis, I’d like a short-term loan spell then bring him back into the fold, but crucially play him in what’s actually his best position.
Up top, I’d sell Danilo. Chermiti I’d keep because you’re not getting your money back, so you may as well work with him and see where it goes. Miovski would be a sell for me, and I’d also move Bejrami on.
Whatever list you land on, the big point remains: we can’t sell everyone. Some of these lads need to be improved by the staff, not written off. And I do think we’re coaching the magic out of players. Everything is patterns, structure, doing the “right” thing. Where’s the freedom? Where’s the football IQ moments? Rangers need a shape, of course, but we also need players allowed to play.
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