Rangers supporters in the Transfer Tavern are very much looking forward to the new era at their football club following the appointment of Steven Gerrard as the new Gers manager last month.
The Liverpool legend was confirmed as Graeme Murty’s replacement back in May to take charge as of June 1, yet the 38-year-old was busy prior to his start date in making additions to the Light Blues squad in the hope that they can challenge champions Celtic next term. Allan McGregor and Scott Arfield have both joined on free transfers, Jamie Murphy has turned his loan move into a permanent one, while Liverpool youngster Ovie Ejaria has joined on loan for the entirety of the 2018/19 campaign.
Consequently, there are many positive Rangers fans in the Tavern at present, several of whom have shown an interest in recent reports linking Southampton with a move for Barcelona forward Paco Alcacer.
And that’s because some of those Gers fans lining up at the bar believe that Gerrard should capitalise on those reports by making a move for current Saints striker Shane Long, who is valued at £6.3 million by Transfermarkt.
Ultimately, the 31-year-old appears to already be some way down Mark Hughes’ pecking order at St Mary’s, what with the Republic of Ireland international failing to start any of their last four Premier League matches, and starting just 15 over the course of the campaign.
And with just two goals to show for his endeavours in the league this term, it’s hardly a surprise to see Long struggle for regular minutes, what with the likes of Charlie Austin, Manolo Gabbiadini, and Guido Carrillo arguably much better forward options.
Add in the possible addition of Alcacer, and it’s difficult to see how the former Reading striker can command regular minutes at St Mary’s next season, and as such he could be on the lookout for a move away this summer in search of first team football.
And Gerrard should give him that chance at Rangers.
31-year-old Long may not have proven to be the most prolific goal-scorer in recent years, although he did at times during his stint at Reading between 2005 and 2011, but it’s what he offers you outside of that which must be of interest to the Gers chief.
The Irishman has a relentless work-ethic in chasing down lost causes and thus leading by example from the front, with his tenacity making life uncomfortable for defenders in their own third of the pitch, while he also possesses deceptively good strength in holding the ball up.
And with an aerial threat as well, he’d add a great deal to Gerrard’s forward ranks at Ibrox, which were somewhat reliant on the goals of Alfredo Morelos and Josh Windass this term, the only two to reach double figures.
Thus, with the Saints reportedly eyeing another forward, Gerrard must take advantage by seeking a move for current Southampton striker Long this summer.
Rangers fans… what do you think? Let us know!
