Derek McInnes believes Lawrence Shankland is far too talented to go without scoring consistently and expects the Rangers captain to make a major contribution, whether he starts or comes off the bench.
Shankland has found the net once in five appearances since joining Rangers. He began Sunday’s match against St Mirren among the substitutes as his side secured a 5-1 victory and recorded their first win of the campaign.
The 31-year-old Scotland international scored 22 goals for Hearts last season while working with McInnes.
“With a player of Lawrence’s quality, someone who understands movement inside the penalty area and knows how to finish, I am not overly concerned,” McInnes said.
“He is simply too talented not to score regularly. His record in the Premiership over the years has made that clear.
“At times, too much attention can be placed on these matters. I would rather allow him to play naturally and trust his ability.
“Top strikers possess an instinctive quality that makes their movements and finishing appear effortless. I am confident he will succeed here.”
McInnes selected Ryan Naderi from the start in the Premier Sports Cup win over St Mirren, with the German forward opening the scoring. Nico Raskin wore the armband in that match.
“That was the message I gave Lawrence when we discussed it,” McInnes explained. “The captaincy does not mean a player is guaranteed a place in the starting line-up, and he understood that. He is not the type to complain. From my previous experience with him, I know he is both an excellent leader and a very good person.
“A captain should influence the team both during matches and away from the pitch, and I am certain Lawrence will do exactly that.”
Shankland is among 11 players brought in by Rangers, while the club is also seeking another striker because Youssef Chermiti is expected to be unavailable for an extended period.
“Our main focus is strengthening the attacking area,” McInnes said. “Centre forwards are often among the hardest players to recruit, and we had not originally planned to target that position before Youssef suffered his injury.
“We hope to identify the right candidate and, ideally, complete the signing as soon as possible.”
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