It took merely five minutes of on-pitch action last night for Rangers fans to potentially think the signing of the summer so far wasn’t Lawrence Shankland. In fact, it was his former Hearts teammate, Cammy Devlin. For Rangers supporters Cammy Devlin shone.
An incredible debut
Rangers’ brand new holding midfielder, so to speak, produced an incredible debut as a second-half substitute. He showed far more industry, drive and snapping at the heels of opponents than Rangers have probably seen for many years.
The Australian international was, of course, a free signing on the expiry of his deal. He instantly became a fan favourite with his bulldog terrier tactics of snapping at his opponents and winning the ball back. He ran the length of the pitch repeatedly and, crucially, was able to play a pass.
We knew Devlin could play
Devlin, as we already knew at Ibrox Noise, was good. We wondered how good Australia had to be in midfield that he couldn’t even get a game at the World Cup.
But we knew this boy could play. We knew that his absence was a huge reason Hearts lost so much momentum towards the title this spring. His poor performance at Parkhead was a huge reason they were unable to actually win that match.
He was an absolutely integral part of Hearts last season. He is probably the main reason that they came so close to winning the title.
Rangers have found a new Jacko
Indeed, he had the same impact in midfield for Hearts last campaign as Ryan Jack did for 55. If Rangers fans are honest, the reason Rangers won 55 was nothing to do with Alan McGregor or Alfredo Morelos. It was not Joe Aribo or certainly James Tavernier.
No, it was Jacko. Jacko covered Tavernier in defence and did the work of about three men. He snapped, pushed, harried, pressed, defended and worked like an absolute dog.
This is exactly what Devlin did for Hearts last season. Within seconds of coming on at Ibrox against Saint-Étienne, this was exactly what Devlin was doing for Rangers.
Exactly what Rangers needed
He is potentially a really huge signing for Rangers. He is exactly what Rangers have been needing in midfield, albeit we need maybe a few more of them. Rangers supporters and Cammy Devlin work well.
Nevertheless, Devlin’s impact and Man of the Match award were extremely merited. It was precisely what Rangers have been crying out for far too long.
Welcome to Rangers, Cammy Devlin. Boy, have we needed a lad like you.