Kris Boyd has expressed concerns over the Rangers’ attacking capabilities as they chase the Scottish Premiership title. Following a narrow 1-0 victory against St Mirren, Boyd criticized forwards Youssef Chermiti and Ryan Naderi for a lack of clinical finishing. This win brought Rangers within three points of league leaders Hearts, intensifying the title race.
Concerns Regarding Forward Performance
Youssef Chermiti, a standout in February, has scored eight of his nine goals this season against top teams like Hearts and Celtic. However, he squandered a crucial opportunity against St Mirren, highlighting Rangers’ ongoing struggles to secure wins decisively. Naderi, who joined Rangers in January from Hansa Rostock, has found the net only twice in the Scottish Cup, failing to score in his subsequent seven appearances.
Criticism from Analysts
Both Boyd and colleague James McFadden have questioned coach Danny Röhl’s tactical decisions. Boyd noted a disconnect between the strikers, stating that neither Chermiti nor Naderi exhibited the teamwork necessary for a successful partnership. He commented, “They both play as lone strikers… I don’t see enough quality at that top end of the pitch.”
- Chermiti’s recent performance includes a remarkable bicycle kick goal.
- Naderi’s scoring has diminished since his initial impact in the Scottish Cup.
- Recent criticism points to a lack of partnership and link-up play between the two forwards.
Title Race Analysis
Rangers are currently facing fierce competition in the title race, with Boyd humorously switching his title prediction back to Rangers after the St Mirren match. Boyd highlighted that while Celtic has struggled, they continue to secure important results.
Upcoming Matches and Title Outlook
Rangers will have two home fixtures in the coming weeks, which present an opportunity for crucial points. Meanwhile, Celtic faces two away challenges, and Hearts continues to lead the table amidst rising pressure.
McFadden believes that predicting the title winner is challenging due to the season’s unpredictability. He remarked, “You’d be a fool to predict it; there will be so many twists and turns.” The coming weeks will be critical as the pressure mounts on all teams vying for the title.
