'Brilliant job' – Rangers boss lauds Dessers, reveals reason behind bench role in previous games

Rangers manager Russell Martin has praised Cyriel Dessers after the Nigerian forward delivered a standout performance in the club’s 3-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round on Tuesday night.

Dessers, who had not started any competitive game this season until the clash at Ibrox, marked his return to the starting XI with a goal and an assist, playing a key role in helping the Scottish giants secure a commanding first-leg advantage.

Speaking to Rangers' official website after the match, Martin explained why the striker had been limited to appearances from the bench in the opening games of the campaign.

"We haven’t been able to play Cyriel from the start yet because he played one game against Middlesbrough and got a bit of an injury, so we’ve been managing him back to get him on the pitch. He did great tonight,” Martin revealed.

The Rangers boss was also full of praise for Dessers’ all-round contribution, highlighting his impact beyond the scoresheet.

"We scored some real quality goals tonight. Cyriel [Dessers] did a brilliant job attracting players so others could run in-behind and he took the ball in well,” Martin added.

Dessers was Rangers' top scorer last season and remains a key figure at the club, but his future is currently uncertain amid reported interest from Greek side AEK Athens.

The Super Eagles striker has been linked with a move to the Greek champions, with Rangers reportedly seeking a fee in the region of €5 million.

With the transfer window nearing its close, the 30-year-old is expected to make a decision on his future soon. 

For now, Rangers will be hoping he can maintain his form as they look to secure qualification for the Champions League group stage.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com