Journalist and Sky Sports contributor Joshua Barrie has claimed that he would like to see Todd Cantwell start for Rangers in their upcoming Old Firm clash.
How has Cantwell performed for Rangers?
The Englishman arrived in January, in what could turn out to be a smart deal for Michael Beale’s side, with the player previously linked with other European heavyweights following a promising spell in the Premier League a few seasons ago.
He has yet to open his account after five appearances, but he provided an assist in Rangers’ 2-1 win over Ross County, showing glimpses of his quality.
With the League Cup final on the horizon, it is a huge chance for Beale to secure his first piece of silverware as Rangers manager, and it remains to be seen what starting XI he will pick for the clash at Hampden Park.
Speaking on The Rangers Review YouTube channel, Barrie claimed that he would like to see Cantwell start in what would be his first Old Firm derby.
Discussing Beale’s potential team selection, he said: “I think Roofe’s unlikely because as we suggested, he’s not started a game since the last Old Firm game at Hampden, so it’d be a surprise if he’s thrown in when Sakala’s started I think 11 or 12 out of 14 games under Beale.
“I would like to see Cantwell start, but I think it is one of the two. We’re presuming that the structure will be the same, with your two midfielders behind one who’s an offensive midfielder.
“I think if Tillman’s fit, that will be the case. Maybe things will change if he doesn’t make the game, but fingers crossed, he does. I just think Sakala gives you variation, he gives you a goal threat.”
What should Beale’s aims for the season be?
With Celtic still nine points clear at the top of the table, a title challenge looks to be out of reach for Beale despite a strong run of form since his appointment.
Winning the League Cup against their rivals could provide a huge confidence boost to the players, fans and manager ahead of next season, where they will be expected to put in a strong challenge for the league title.
With Rangers also in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, the Englishman may have a cup double in mind, but will be wary that a loss against Celtic could derail their fine form which has seen them win their last nine games in a row.
Sunday’s game, therefore, carries a lot of pressure for Rangers, and Beale will need to get his selection spot on if he is to beat their bitter rivals.
Cantwell, who has been hailed as “wonderful” by Brian Laudrup, and midfielder Nicolas Raskin arrived as Beale’s first two signings at the club in January, and the boss will be hoping for an immediate impact from both. Whilst Cantwell’s place in the lineup is far from guaranteed for the cup final, Raskin looks almost certain to start following a solid start to life at Ibrox.
The English midfielder has not found his best form for a while following an unproductive loan spell at Bournemouth last season, but if Rangers can get him back to his best, then he could become a key player as the club challenges for silverware in the future.