While Allan McGregor has had a great start to the season, the 37-year-old is not getting any younger. With his eyes on the future, Steven Gerrard is already in the market for a replacement. Reports this week suggest that Steven Gerrard has his eyes on Preston goalkeeper Declan Rudd (Football Insider).
The move showcases a great sign of intent from Gerrard who is clearly planning for the future as well as attempting to win his side’s 55th league title. The Football Insider article explains that the 28-year-old goalkeeper is out of a contract at the end of the summer. But the question remains, who is Rudd? And is he good enough to play for Rangers?
TIF Tactics – Could Declan Rudd start for Rangers?
Rudd has played 15 games for Preston this season already. All of these appearances have come in the English Championship, in which Preston currently sit second. In those games, Rudd has conceded 16 goals, meaning he has conceded more goals than games played. Specifically, it is 1.07 goals per game (WhoScored.com).
And while those statistics may not sound great, it is important to remember that Allan McGregor averaged 1.08 goals against him in his last season playing in the Championship (footystats.org). But upon closer inspection of the statistics of each game on WhoScored, Declan Rudd has made 30 saves in 15 appearances. Also, seven of the 16 goals conceded came in three matches.
While his goals against statistics don’t necessarily blow you away, his save percentage tells a much different story. While he may not be the first choice right away, bringing Rudd in could be a great move for Gerrard in the future.