Tom Lawrence was a signing that fans were split on when it was announced. It seemed to be they were either 100% on board or hated the thought of a free transfer from a English Championship side. After his debut it was clear to see the quality of player Rangers had signed.
From the get go he was tenacious and eager to get involved. A player of clear technical ability who wasn’t afraid to shoot, something Rangers had been lacking from forwards. Not only that, he pressed really well and showed an incredible work rate off of the ball. He made it clear he wasn’t just there to get goals, he wanted involved in every bit of the play.
He’s played as the number 8, behind the striker and on both wings in his short time at Rangers. He’s incredibly versatile which is, again, something the squad lacks. It still remains unclear where his best position is and that’s a massive testament to his quality in his handful of appearances.
For a player who had never player in a European competition before he wasn’t overawed by playing in the Champions League. He looked like a player who had been at that level his whole career and managed to get a crucial goal against PSV at Ibrox. Not many players fit so seamlessly into a Rangers jersey but Tom Lawrence definitely did.
In his five SPFL appearances, these were his stats;
- 5 Appearances (4 Starts)
- 2G/1A
- 3.4 Shots Per Game
- 1.8 Key Passes Per Game
- 1.8 Tackles Per Game
- 49% Total Duels Won
Despite the small sample size, these stats show how well rounded his game his and potentially highlight how valuable he could be deeper in midfield. The 3.4 shots per game is a key stat as Rangers lack many players that are willing to just have a go from outside the area. Having more players who aren’t shot shy can only be a good thing, as the old saying goes ‘you don’t shoot, you don’t score’.
Just under two key passes per game also indicate that he’s a very creative player. He still is a shoot first type of player but he’s very capable of creating quality chances for others.
This Rangers team needs players with versatility and Lawrence offers exactly that. He offers versatility along with quality, you can’t ask for much more from a free transfers.
Where do you see his best position? As a winger looking to cut in and get a shot away? As the main creative force behind the striker? Or as an attacking and aggressive number 8? He offers a lot in all these positions and could be a key player for Rangers next season considering how good a start he had to this one.
It will be exciting to see him step on to the pitch again in the near future, bring on next season.