Opinion
Steven Gerrard’s first season in charge at Rangers has been a roaring success so far, but if they are to take the next step towards recapturing their former glories they must focus on improving their strength in depth.
The Gers have the opportunity to move to the top of the SPL with a win over faltering Hearts on Sunday, while qualification for the knockout stage of the Europa League remains a real possibility.
Goals have not been hard to come by for Gerrard’s side, but the threat of a congested fixture list, made worse by lengthy European away trips, should force the young manager to consider bringing in good, quality additions to bolster his ranks and ease the goalscoring burdens being put upon his frontline.
If reports from the Mirror are to be believed, free-scoring Sunderland striker Josh Maja could be available for as little as £6million if he fails to agree a new deal with the Wearside club any time soon, and Rangers should make a move to bring the 19-year-old to Ibrox.
Maja has 11 goals in all competitions this season, and has drawn the attention of several Premier League and Championship clubs, but a move to Glasgow could be beneficial to both club and player.
A chance to develop in a competitive league with regular game time and European football, away from the direct pressures of the English media, could help Maja reach the next level of his progression, while Rangers would benefit from a further goalscoring threat with masses of potential during what could be a strenuous period for the club.