There is no doubt Rangers’ midfield is arguably the strongest and best-performing it has been since pre-2012.
Indeed, some could even make a valid case that the current pairing of Greg Docherty and Sean Goss matches or even exceeds the Steven Davis and Mo Edu pairing of years gone by, despite neither current player having a senior cap for their countries.
But whatever way you wish to rate the pair, they have been sensational, and far more befitting of a real Rangers midfield.
Which brings us onto Ryan Jack. And before I add anything further, this article is in no way an attack on the lad, nor a smear campaign – it is just an objective analysis.
The reality is Ryan Jack, before his injury, had failed to set Ibrox alight on any level. A tonne of bookings, sendings off, and genuinely underwhelming displays punctuated him which saw many fans defend him because he should have been better than he was.
When we compare the instant impact of Docherty plus the slightly slower one of Goss (a few weeks) it becomes evident what constitutes a good midfielder at Ibrox, and the fact all fans are delighted with the pair of them while Jack divided supporters to an extent gives some idea of how much more impressive they have both been than the ex-Aberdeen captain.
In theory, Jack is a fine player – he was excellent at Pittodrie and he was the highest priority signing for Rangers last summer, but it would simply be untrue to claim he has lived up to that reputation.
In no way are we kicking a man when he’s down – we have utter sympathy for his injury plight and still cannot quite believe Graeme Murty failed to condemn such a clear assault by Motherwell’s Cedric Kipre (we saw the Steelman at it again against Hearts at the weekend). We wish for a speedy recovery for a player who surely has more to give.
But Goss and Docherty’s form and ability is unquestionable, and in many ways Ryan Jack can only benefit from that. It forces him to raise his game on return and gives Graeme Murty a massive selection headache – and Rangers are better off with more than one strong and capable defensive midfielder.
Competition at Ibrox is critical. As excellent as Docherty is, should he lose form right now only Holt is available to take his place. A Ryan Jack playing like the player we believe we signed is a far better alternative.
Of course this is a bit moot till the lad regains fitness, and that seems to be some distance down the line. But he now knows when he comes back that his game will have to improve considerably – and we know he is more than capable of that.
End result benefits Rangers and that’s what we want to see.
He will regain his place in the team when fit. Have no doubt about that.
I Like Ryan Jack as a Player
I know he had a rough start to his Gers career and i hope he improves on his return from injury.
Obviously my number 1. Will always be for RFC to be successful first and foremost but id also like to see jack do well in the blue of our beloved rangers 🤔☺💙
Graham Dorrans isn't far away from being fully fit I've heard. He could do a job in there as well if he can reach the level we know he can.
That Cedric Kipre is hard as nails at the back . Think he'd do a job for us next season ?
Mo Edu and Davis ?? Edu bit part player try Ferguson and Davis
Jack would be far better in THIS rangers team.
He played in a poor and inconsistent gers team.
Jack is a very, very good player. Get off his back.
Jack is a brilliant player. I agree with Big Harry.
Ryan Jack is a good solid Scottish player ..he will be an asset to Rangers as we improve and move forward .His strength is he never tries to be something he isn't Good player with a good attitude
A tonne of sending offs really!! Two of those where never a red no matter what way you cut it and proven so.. I jumped to Holts defence when you slated him, it’s only fair I do the same with Jack who is by a country mile a better player..
Once again the expectation placed on him before he even kicked a ball says it all.. He will comeback stronger and will have to work his arse off to get back in the Team.. That makes it a far better squad for the start of next season in my eyes… Rangers will improve next season again and Jack will have his part to play in that…
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