What is left for Jon Flanagan at Rangers?
When Steven Gerrard made 15 new signings last summer, it was inevitable that not all of them were going to pay off. Umar Sadiq’s loan spell at Rangers is a prime example.
The colossal striker will be remembered for his dismal dive against Aberdeen in the Scottish League Cup semi-final. He has since returned to AS Roma early, and been loaned out to Perugia.
It can be argued that others have struggled, such as Gareth McAuley, Kyle Lafferty and even Lassana Coulibaly of late. But one that may feel hard done by is full-back Jon Flanagan.
The one-time England international joined Rangers on a free in the summer, and has impressed when given the chance. He has made 23 appearances for the Teddy Bears in all competitions.
(Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
But since December 5, Flanagan has played just one minute in the league. The form of James Tavernier, and the impressive combination of Borna Barisic and Andy Halliday at left-back has kept Flanagan sidelined.
Now, the signing of Matt Polster from MLS side Chicago Fire in January has given Steven Gerrard a wealth of options on each side of his defence. Tavernier and Polster on the right, Barisic and Halliday on the left.
The former Burnley and Liverpool defender has next to no chance of game time at Ibrox. Offered a two-year deal last summer, he has two transfer windows in which Rangers can bring in a fee.
With a constant need to catch Celtic, plenty of summer action is expected. But with new signings, players must leave – and Flanagan is one of those that are surplus to requirements.
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
