Rangers’ transfer window report

Despite spending around £12M, unfortunately this transfer window has been underwhelming.

Only four new outfield signings arrived, in the form of Calvin Bassey, Leon Balogun, Kemar Roofe and Cedric Itten.

Jermain Defoe and Ianis Hagi were made permanent.

It’s not really been the serious improvement in quality we needed – but there’s something else which has deeply compensated for it.

While yesterday’s win over Ross County was far from impressive, the system and formation overhaul this season has seen Rangers (mostly) play like a new team, with a lot of new signings.

And crucially, many of our players have hit form to make them feel like new players.

We’ve seen Filip Helander and James Tavernier in excellent form, and both have been highlights of defence.

Connor Goldson has been notably improved.

Glen Kamara, County dip aside, has been like a new player this season, and Scott Arfield has been invigorated like a man possessed.

Ryan Kent has finally clinched form (even if recent displays have been slightly below his best) and Jordan Jones has been restored, and is looking good.

Last but not least Brandon Barker has been the surprise of the season, finally translating his training form into competitive matches.

That’s been the difference this season – not the new signings, who frankly to a man have made little real difference to this team.

Which is not to say they’re rubbish – they’re not bad players, they’ve just not added much that we didn’t have. Apart from depth and competition. And half of them have been out injured as well.

No, the real improvement this campaign is the system and that new depth, and how they’re benefiting almost everyone.

Plus add the deeper squad with the ability to bring in some decent players as deputies, and that’s why Rangers are in a better place right now.

Because with all due respect, Cedric Itten (sizzling double aside), Leon Balogun (after such a stellar bright start) and Kemar Roofe (he’s managed a couple of goals) haven’t really added anything substantial yet.

Instead their arrivals have pushed existing players to higher levels, and the system has aided significantly in that.