Strikers, Midfield and Defensive Needs

We need clarity up front and in midfield, but defence still looks like the priority. Here's why a measured approach, not a fire-sale, is what Rangers should be aiming for.

I disagree with the striker panic. Naderi and Skankland can be useful but Miovski looks surplus, and defence still needs proper attention before we rush the front line.

Where the front line stands

To be fair, there’s more to a striker than raw numbers. Naderi has the movement and industry to cause problems even if he isn’t banging in every week; he can create chances and drag defenders out of shape. Skankland is an interesting one — there’s talk he could have a very good season and people expect goals, but he might not be the long-term answer up top.

Miovski feeling surplus is a blunt way of putting it, but the point stands: we need a plan. Sell if the right offer comes and bring in a younger profile or promote from the academy to give us pace and value. You don’t want a bloated forward line with too many players blocking each other.

Midfield needs brains as well as legs

Midfield remains the area I’m most worried about for creativity. We’ve lacked that killer pass, the player who can unlock a compact defence. Neil and Dahl might provide something in that department, but one more genuine passer who sees the final ball would make a real difference.

Goals from midfield will be important too. If the wide forwards are chipping in, the midfield still has to offer support and a link between defence and attack. It’s about balance — energy and creativity together, not one or the other.

Defence: don’t leave this until it’s urgent

Defence was meant to be the priority and I still think it should be. We need reinforcements across the backline — cover and competition at centre-back and full-back so we aren’t exposed. I’m not totally convinced by Godfrey yet; ideally he becomes another steady figure like Goldson, but we must be ready for life without Fernandez if that day comes.

Squad turnover is a delicate business. Too much change last season proved disruptive, and we shouldn’t repeat that mistake. Get the core right, add a creative midfielder and sort the defence. The rest can follow without panicking the dressing room.

Written by DJB_Ranger: 2 August 2026