Steven Gerrard has confirmed Cedric Itten is likely to start the season as Rangers’ main striker after announcing he’s been the standout performer up front for the club in pre-season, amidst Alfredo Morelos’ continuing absence.
The Swiss striker, who’s netted 3 times this summer, added the mighty Real Madrid to his victims, and Stevie lauded his contribution the past few weeks:
“He’s probably been the stand out attacking player for the most minutes. He hasn’t missed a training session, he seems more settled in the city now that he and his girlfriend can get about. You can see that in his performances. He’s scored three goals and he certainly looks ready.”
Ibrox Noise decried the selection of Jermain Defoe for the first three friendlies, with the veteran striker not looking anything like his old self and ourselves being frustrated that Itten wasn’t getting the nod and chance to show his capabilities.
But he got the start v Brighton and then again against Real and the manager admits he looks hungry, ready, and frankly Rangers’ best goalscorer this overall pre-season.
Does this mean he starts next weekend v Livi? It hints strongly at it. Itten has deeply benefited from a full pre-season, and while the results and performances have only limited use for learning, it’s generally the best indicator of fitness, attitude and energy levels.
And for those at least, Itten has revelled. While not getting the starts v Partick, Tranmere or Arsenal, Itten used his cameos well, netting twice.
And starting v Real, he took that on further, before bagging a great goal v the CasaBlanca.
But then, Rangers were also introduced to the brilliant debut of Fashion Sakala, so just when Itten thought it was finally there for him, a Zambian assassin shows up to spoil the party.
We’ll see come next Saturday who Stevie goes with…