In a recent interview, former Celtic manager Neil Lennon expressed admiration for Rangers’ active approach in the transfer market. Lennon commended Rangers’ acquisitions of Todd Cantwell, Kieran Dowell, and Jack Butland, highlighting their potential to enhance Michael Beale’s squad.
Last season, Rangers secured an impressive tally of 92 points, marking their best performance since their resurgence from the depths of the third tier over a decade ago, aside from their legendary Invincible season under Steven Gerrard’s management.
Lennon acknowledged the progress made by Rangers, emphasizing their formidable point accumulation. “Rangers finished the season pretty well. The only problem Michael had is that they couldn’t get one over on Celtic when it really mattered. I mean, they finished the season on 92 points!” he revealed during an interview with talkSPORT on June 19th at 11 am.
With Celtic currently undergoing a transitional phase following the departure of Ange Postecoglou, Lennon believes that Rangers, with their recent signings, have positioned themselves advantageously. Beale’s early summer acquisitions, including Dujon Sterling, Jack Butland, Sam Lammers, and Kieran Dowell, strengthen the blue-clad club’s chances of capitalizing on Celtic’s current situation.
“There is a rebuild on there. Alfredo Morelos has gone. Allan McGregor has gone. Ryan Kent has gone. Big players and big personalities,” Lennon acknowledged. He further stressed Beale’s desire to imprint his own style on the team, making it clear that significant changes were taking place at Rangers.
Lennon specifically lauded the additions of Jack Butland and a skilled central midfielder, who had previously played alongside the already influential Todd Cantwell at Norwich City. Butland, a former England international, is expected to provide an upgrade to the goalkeeping department, surpassing the 41-year-old McGregor’s abilities.
“Cantwell finished the season well. I think Dowell is a good signing. I saw Jack Butland going in there, which will improve the goalkeeping department,” Lennon commented. “But he’s still got a massive challenge on his hands with the fact that Brendan – an elite manager – is going in there.”
Recognizing the magnitude of the task that lies ahead for Beale and the Rangers team, Lennon expressed confidence in their ability to confront the challenge head-on. “It’s a huge challenge for Michael and the Rangers team. But I’m sure one they will be looking forward to as well,” he concluded.
In addition to the aforementioned signings, Sam Lammers, a £3 million acquisition from Atalanta, recently became Beale’s fourth new addition this summer. It appears that Rangers’ ambitious recruitment drive is far from over, as the club is reportedly pursuing potential signings like Jose Cifuentes, Cyriel Dessers, and Jonathan Panzo in the near future.