Rangers manager Derek McInnes has expressed unwavering confidence in striker Lawrence Shankland, dismissing any concerns about his early-season goal tally. Despite a return of just one goal in five matches since his summer transfer, McInnes believes Shankland possesses the quality to succeed at Ibrox and become a consistent scorer for the club. Shankland, who was appointed club captain by McInnes, has faced some scrutiny regarding his contributions and his place in the starting lineup.

McInnes Backs Shankland’s Scoring Prowess

Shankland joined Rangers at the beginning of the summer and subsequently represented Scotland in the World Cup. His lone goal for the club came in a Europa League match against Jagiellonia Bialystok. While acknowledging the criticism, McInnes remains steadfast in his belief in the striker’s abilities. “When you have a player like Lawrence, who knows his way around the penalty box and how to score goals, I do not worry too much about it,” McInnes stated. “He is too good not to score regularly. He has consistently shown that over a period of time in the Premier League, with 20-odd goals a season at Hearts.”

The manager suggested that the focus on Shankland’s current form might be overemphasized. He advocates for allowing the striker to play his natural game, highlighting the instinctive qualities that define top forwards. “Sometimes people can overemphasise these things. For me, it is a case of letting him play his natural game. The best strikers have that instinctive side to their game, where everything looks natural and seamless. I have no doubt he will do well here.”

Captaincy and First-Team Selection

Shankland has experienced periods as a substitute, notably in the recent match against Jagiellonia where he played only the final five minutes, and also in the Premier Sports Cup victory over St Mirren. This has led some supporters to question the decision to make him captain, given that he may not always be an automatic starter. McInnes addressed these concerns directly, clarifying that the captaincy does not guarantee a starting position.

“I said that when I spoke to Lawrence – being captain does not guarantee anything, and he accepted that,” McInnes explained. “He is not going to stamp his feet about it. Somebody has to be club captain and, having worked with Lawrence before, he is a brilliant captain and a brilliant boy. He has a lot to offer.”

The manager believes that Shankland’s influence extends beyond the pitch. “People can maybe look too much into it. You want your captain to have a big influence on and off the pitch, and I believe Lawrence will have that. For me, it is a non-question, although I understand why people might see more in it.”

Transfer Activity and Squad Strengthening

In parallel with the discussions about Shankland, Rangers have been active in the transfer market. The club has secured the season-long loan of Serbian right-back Kosta Nedeljkovic from Aston Villa. The 20-year-old defender’s deal includes a conditional obligation to buy for £4 million next summer, contingent on appearances. Nedeljkovic is expected to be available for the upcoming UEFA Conference League qualifier against Jablonec, alongside fellow new recruit James Penrice.

McInnes confirmed that the club’s transfer priorities remain focused on strengthening the attacking areas. “The priorities are at the top end of the pitch. We need to bring players in there,” he stated. “That is not to say we would not look elsewhere, but where we are at the minute, I hope the next signing is someone in the forward areas. That would be the priority.”

The manager is specifically seeking a winger of high caliber, with versatility on either flank being a bonus. “I just want a winger of the right level at the minute. If he plays off the left or the right, that will do me. If he can play on both sides, even better.” He acknowledged the existing options like Djeidi Gassama, Findlay Curtis, and Daisuke Yokota, but emphasized the need for additional attacking threat.

The injury to striker Youssef Chermiti has also influenced the club’s transfer strategy, prompting a renewed search for a number nine. “As I’ve said, No 9s are normally difficult to sign. It was not an area we were initially looking to address, but the injury to Youssef [Chermiti] has changed that,” McInnes revealed. “Every day, the staff are actively trying to source good options and see whether we can bring one in. There has been plenty of work done and we are poring over different strikers. Hopefully, we can land on the one we want and get him here quickly.”

New Signing Nedeljkovic Eager to Contribute

Kosta Nedeljkovic, who has represented Serbia internationally, is set to compete for the right-back position with Dujon Sterling and Ross McCrorie. The move is pending international clearance. Nedeljkovic expressed his enthusiasm about joining Rangers, describing it as a significant opportunity.

“I am very excited. Rangers is such a big club, a big family, and I am excited to join and help the team have success together,” Nedeljkovic told the club’s official website. “For me, it was an easy decision after meeting with the coach; I only wanted Rangers. It is a big opportunity and a big responsibility. I always try to be positive and work hard so I am ready to help the team.”

McInnes welcomed Nedeljkovic, highlighting his attributes. “Kosta is a talented young player who we are really pleased to bring to the club. He has already gained some valuable experience at a high level in England and Germany, as well as representing Serbia internationally. Kosta is an athletic and energetic full-back who is keen to get forward, but he also has a real desire to defend and compete, and he will further strengthen a key area for us. I look forward to welcoming Kosta to Rangers, and working with him moving forward.”

Looking Ahead to Jablonec Clash

The team is preparing for the first leg of their UEFA Conference League play-off tie against Czech side Jablonec at Ibrox. The manager’s focus remains on integrating new signings and ensuring the squad is well-equipped for domestic and European challenges, with continued belief in the capabilities of his existing players, including captain Lawrence Shankland.