Clive Tyldesley shares what Rangers boss Steven Gerrard told him behind the scenes about Fashion Sakala

Add as preferred source on Google

Fashion Sakala will feel on top of the world. Although it was a pre-season friendly, he felt what it was like to score in a Rangers shirt for the first time on Sunday – against Real Madrid of all opposition. During commentary, Clive Tyldesley shares what Steven Gerrard had told him about Sakala.

Sakala, 24, has joined Rangers on a free transfer from Belgian side KV Oostende after scoring 16 goals last season. The five-time Zambia international, though, was out of contract in June and Rangers have taken advantage. On Sunday’s showing, it is certainly a coup.

With Rangers trailing Isco’s opener, Sakala capitalised on a mistake. Driving forward, he smashed a shot past Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. Speaking earlier on in the match before Sakala’s goal on 55 minutes, Tyldesley spoke of what Gerrard had told him about Sakala.

The Rangers commentator claims that Gerrard told him behind the scenes that Sakala is capable of playing anywhere in the final third. He said on Rangers TV (Sunday, 6:10PM): “The manager told me yesterday that he can play all across the front line, on both flanks and down the middle.”

Just how good can Sakala be at Rangers, amid Gerrard comments to Tyldesley?

Rangers have numerous options in the final third, but what is great about Sakala is that he can do them all. Only one other player can play up front, out wide or as a 10 and that is Kemar Roofe. It helps – judging by Roofe’s 20-21 stats – after 18 goals last season.

Sakala faces plenty of competition. That includes Cedric Itten who now has three goals in pre-season including Sunday’s winner. So, Sakala’s versatility will be important. It gives Gerrard options, but it also gives Sakala the chance to continuously gain Rangers game time.