Former Rangers manager is spot on with title race assessment

Rangers need Kemar Roofe to lead the front line if they aim to win their 55th league title.

The Scottish Premiership is beginning to heat up as Rangers and Celtic are now level on points at the top of the table with 19 each. Through seven games played, the giants from Glasgow enjoy the same undefeated record of six victories and one draw.

The primary difference between the historic rivals can be spotted on both ends of the pitch. Through seven games, Celtic have scored more goals – 20 compared to Rangers’ 15 – but the Light Blues boast a perfect defensive record with zero goals conceded.

Hibernian, who take on Rangers today, is keeping their hat in the title race in this early stage of the season, but the expectation is for the title hunt to transform into a two-horse race over the next few weeks.

According to the computer calculations published by FiveThirtyEight, Neil Lennon’s side are tapped as favorites to win their tenth consecutive title. At the moment, however, Rangers are playing with more confidence, and their defensive stability can carry them in this campaign.

Former Gers boss Alex McLeish recently shared his thoughts on the title race, and he pinpointed Kemar Roofe as the key piece to the puzzle for Rangers.

McLeish, who won seven pieces of silverware during his time as manager at Ibrox, made the following statement about his expectations for Roofe as the primary striker:

"If you’re going to win the championship, in Scotland especially, then they need to get the players that matter, the guys like Roofe, in that 15-20 bracket."

That expectation places a lot of pressure on Roofe’s shoulders, but he is already performing well. The former Anderlecht and Leeds United striker has made five appearances – three as a starter – and has two goals to his name.

Compared to fellow new signing Cedric Itten, Roofe is settling into the squad much quicker, and he is adapting to the style of play in Scotland with no issues. He is certainly capable of reaching that 15-goal tally this season, especially with the quality service he is receiving from out wide.

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Roofe’s ability to lead the front line will be important in the title race, especially if Alfredo Morelos finds a new club over the next few weeks, or in January.

Something that will provide the Light Blues with a massive boost in the title race is Ryan Kent’s form this season. The dynamic winger is off to a flying start with four goals in seven games.

If Kent and Roofe can both find the back of the net  15 to 20 times this season, Rangers will be in a good position to seriously envision their 55th title on display at Ibrox Stadium.