Rangers FC need their key players to step up, and one playmaker is willing to accept that challenge.
Rangers Football Club currently occupy the top spot in the Scottish Premiership after starting the season with four victories and one draw. When looking at the fixtures played so far, Rangers are only one goal shy of having a perfect record.
The 0-0 draw against Livingston two weekends ago has fans worried as they fear Gers do not have enough creativity in the tank to break down teams that park the bus in their own half.
All eyes are on Ryan Kent and Joe Aribo to orchestrate the majority of Rangers attacks. The duo is technically gifted, have quick feet, can score goals, and can provide assists.
Kent has played his part with three goals in the opening five games, and Aribo is also keen on having a big season. In a recent interview, the Nigerian international gave fans some insight into his mentality and individual objectives for the season. See direct quotes below:
"I like to open the door, to open defences and move people about. […]It’s nice knowing I have to be one of the men to do it. I’m going to thrive on that constantly. […]I want to be hitting the double-digit figures as a minimum. We do need to share the goals around more."
Last season was all about settling into the squad and adapting to Scottish football for Aribo, but he knows he is expected to perform at an elite level this term.
Along with Kent, Aribo is the most dynamic player in the squad who thrives in one-on-one situations and understands how to get in good scoring positions.
The fact that he willing to step up his game and score at least 10 goals is massive. The more involved he is offensively, less pressure is placed on the shoulders of newcomers Kemar Roofe and Cedric Itten.
The 24-year-old has missed the last two games with a knock, but manager Steven Gerrard expects his rising star to be ready for their next game against Hamilton Academical.
Aribo was in fine form during pre-season and he carried that momentum over into the first three games of the season. Fans should be excited about his recent statements as he seems motivated to reach new heights this season.