Christmas has come early for McCoist
PA PhotosAlly McCoist must demand the highest standards from his players It seems that Christmas has come early for Ally McCoist and the Rangers fans after Fran Sandaza and David Templeton have been given the all clear by the Club Doctor to return to the first team. With seven games to play in December things will get tough for the Ibrox men so an ever-growing injury list hasn’t been helping the cause.
Ross Perry and Emilson Cribari being out has meant that goal-machine Lee McCulloch has had to replace them in defence. The Rangers captain will still have to play centre-half for the foreseeable future, but with the two attacking players on the mend, it means that there will be more options going forward for the management team.
To say that Sandaza and Templeton will be like two new signings is only a slight exaggeration for the Spaniard, but not far from literally true with Templeton. In any case it will feel like two new players and it couldn't have happened at a better time. They are quality SPL standard and if they get anywhere near their top form they will tear SFL3 teams apart.
Templeton especially is exactly the type of footballer that the fans will love to watch. He is terrific with the ball at his feet, is a real goal threat, and will bring out the best from those playing alongside him. His link-up play with Dean Shiels should be interesting and with a midfield of those two and any from Black, Macleod, Aird, Hutton and Mckay, the heart of the team is a lot more exciting than many would have expected four months ago.
As for Sandaza, his speed of recovery and willingness to play so soon after his horrific cheekbone injury is very impressive. At one point there was concern that he might lose an eye so obviously the physical damage was extensive, but only a fool would not have some psychological concerns as well, so his bravery is commendable.
With Elgin City the opponents on Sunday in the Scottish Cup it’s not crucial that both play from the start and it’s doubtful that they will. That’s not saying the Rangers will be taking the City men for granted. The Highland club are playing really well at the moment and are not only a close second in the league behind the Gers, but have scored the same amount of goals which is no mean feat.
Although they lost 5-1 in their last trip to Ibrox, this will be a totally different game with a smaller crowd and quieter atmosphere, so it’s unlikely they will be fazed by the occasion. Ally McCoist certainly expects his team to come under pressure and in a recent press conference said: “You look [at Elgin City] and they’re a goalscoring side. They get players forward and take chances. I fully expect them to come and have a go at us, probably more so because it is a cup tie. There isn’t any doubt about that.”
It’s one of those games that the Light Blues could easily slip up in if they don’t stay focused, but although still vulnerable in defence, they should have too many options in attack for City to cope with. It might be cold on Sunday but expect some hot action around the goalmouth and a warm round of applause for two players who more than deserve it.
Prediction: Rangers 4-2 Elgin City
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