Much-maligned Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers showing new levels of consistency

Cyriel Dessers, the Nigerian striker who arrived at Rangers with much anticipation last summer, has endured a rollercoaster ride at Ibrox.

Initially maligned for his lack of goals and struggles to adapt to the Scottish Premiership, Dessers appears to be silencing his critics with a recent surge in form, showcasing new levels of consistency.

Dessers' time at Rangers started with a whimper rather than a bang. His early performances were met with disappointment, and criticism followed as goals remained elusive.

The striker, who had shone brightly in the Europa Conference League with Feyenoord, seemed to be struggling to find his footing in Scotland.

However, a resurgence in his recent form proved to be a turning point for both the club and the player.

The arrival of Philippe Clement who succeeded Michael Beale in October 2023 brought a new approach, and Dessers seems to have thrived under the Belgian tactician's guidance.

The Super Eagles striker has absolutely exploded in terms of goalscoring statistics, scoring twelve league goals and assisting thrice in twenty-four league appearances for Rangers this season and there is also a clear shift in his overall contribution to the team.

His movement on the pitch has improved significantly, and he has developed a better understanding of his role within Clement's system.

His link-up play with his teammates has become more fluid, and he's consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic, qualities that were previously lacking.

This newfound confidence culminated in a remarkable performance against Hearts on Saturday, February 24th.

Dessers silenced his doubters yet again in emphatic fashion, bagging a brace  to help propel Rangers to a convincing 5-0 victory over Hearts.

This impressive display was a testament to his recent improvement and the positive impact Clement has had on his development.

Rangers fans will be hoping that Dessers can continue on this upward trajectory, translating his improved form into a consistent flow of goals.

If he can replicate his recent performances, he could prove to be a valuable asset in the club's pursuit of the league title in the remaining months of the season.

The 29-year-old hasn't seen much of international football for Nigeria since making his debut against Tunisia in a friendly game in 2020, bagging four international caps overall for the 2023 AFCON silver medalists.

His last call up to the Super Eagles came in 2022 for a then pre-World Cup friendly game against Portugal and was an unused substitute in the eventual 4-0 loss.

Ejim Kaycee

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