Rangers Football Club finds itself facing questions about its defensive lineup. Former player and coach Kevin Thomson believes the club missed a golden opportunity in the transfer market. Specifically, he argues that Rangers should have signed Ryan Porteous, a promising Scottish defender who eventually made a move to England with Watford. Thomson’s insights shed light on a potential area of improvement for the club.
The only addition Rangers made to their defensive roster was Leon Balogun, who returned to Ibrox, in a somewhat surprising move. Balogun brings experience to the backline, but he doesn’t necessarily enhance the starting XI, leaving Rangers’ defense largely unchanged from the previous season. This limited movement in the transfer market prompted some to question the club’s approach.
Kevin Thomson, a former Hibernian player who also spent time at Rangers as a player and coach, believes that Rangers should have made a move for Porteous. Thomson, who has experience coaching in the Rangers youth setup, disclosed that he directly urged Rangers’ coach Michael Beale to bring Porteous to Ibrox.
Thomson expressed his belief that Watford’s acquisition of Porteous for a mere £450,000 was a “steal.” He predicts that Porteous’s impressive performances will soon attract the attention of other clubs. Thomson stated, “£450k for Ryan Porteous, Watford must be rubbing their hands, it’s a steal. I actually told Mick Beale to sign him when I was at Rangers when I coached in the academy.”
While Thomson’s remarks are not intended to be disrespectful to Watford, he anticipates that other clubs will soon test Watford’s resolve to keep hold of Porteous. This endorsement from a former player and coach underscores the missed opportunity that Rangers now face.
In hindsight, Rangers may rue their decision not to pursue Ryan Porteous more aggressively. As the football season unfolds, the club and its fans will closely watch Porteous’s performances in England, all while contemplating what might have been for Rangers’ defense.