Restoration to the Scottish Premiership has been a dream for Rangers fans in the Transfer Tavern since their relegation from the league in 2012, with the punters propping up the bar full of such optimism prior the season.
However, Celtic’s imperial march ever since will leave much room for thought and envy at Ibrox.
The club currently sit eleven points behind their bitter rivals, who have flourished under new manager Brendan Rodgers. For Mark Warburton’s men to close at the summit, he must consider re-enforcements this January transfer window.
While bridging the gap may be rather difficult to do right away, perhaps some well thought out New Year additions can provide a much-needed shot in the arm for next season.
A humiliating 5-1 defeat in the Old Firm derby further highlights the divide between the two clubs, and Warburton should be considering Premier League experience to restore that intense rivalry pursuing the SPL title.
Our Rangers supporting locals here at the Transfer Tavern have grown tired with the impending success occurring across the city, and our Landlord believes that these THREE fringe players would boost the team’s chances of success – if the club could sign just one this winter.
Benik Afobe
After initially impressing upon his arrival from Wolves little over a year ago now, Benik Afobe has fallen somewhat down the pecking order with Bournemouth.
Despite this, Afobe should be playing regular football, and Rangers would be the ideal club for the former Wolves’ striker.
A natural goalscorer, Afobe would add youth, strength and a finishing touch not witnessed at the top-level since Kris Boyd was a fan favourite at Ibrox.
Lucas
The dismissal of Joey Barton recently has left a significant hole in the Rangers midfield. Warburton’s side are arguably better off without the troublesome midfielder, though are desperately lacking the necessary steel.
Lucas would provide the expertise to replace Barton after becoming a fringe player at current club Liverpool.
Our Rangers supporting locals here in the Transfer Tavern would instantly adore Lucas and the restoration in the belief of catching Celtic may soon become a reality.
Connor Wickham
Once dubbed the next Alan Shearer, Connor Wickham has not hit the heights the legendary Geordie once did.
At Crystal Palace, he finds himself bench bound to the in-form Christian Benteke. Wickham does not look set to return to the first-team and may need to look elsewhere to kick-start his career.
Rangers would provide the platform for the striker to restore his goalscoring ability and ensure his presence is met with the opposition in Scotland.
