Barry Ferguson explains why Kevin Kelsy may have to wait for Rangers opportunity

Derek McInnes is still shaping his Rangers side after a major summer rebuild, but former Ibrox captain Barry Ferguson believes there is already one position where the manager knows exactly who he wants leading the line.

That player is Lawrence Shankland.

Rangers have eased some of the pressure surrounding their early-season campaign by recording consecutive away victories over Aberdeen and Falkirk. However, McInnes has continued to experiment with his formations and personnel as his new-look squad adjusts.

With several new arrivals still adapting to life at Ibrox, competition for places remains intense. Ferguson, though, does not expect the same uncertainty at centre-forward after Shankland produced three goals across his last two appearances.

The Rangers captain scored twice against Falkirk after also finding the net at Pittodrie, underlining his importance to the side.

Ferguson believes Shankland is at his most effective when he operates as the focal point of the attack and expects that to remain a key feature of McInnes’ plans.

He said the striker’s recent performances have demonstrated why Rangers brought him to the club, describing Shankland as a player capable of producing decisive moments and one of the most natural finishers in the country.

Rangers have nevertheless invested heavily in another centre-forward, with Venezuelan striker Kevin Kelsy completing a move from Portland Timbers for around £9million on deadline day.

Despite the significant fee, Ferguson believes Kelsy may have to be patient before establishing himself as the team’s first-choice striker.

The former Rangers midfielder views Kelsy as an exciting prospect with the physical attributes to become a major player, but feels the newcomer will either have to wait for his opportunity or find a way to operate alongside Shankland.

For now, Ferguson argues that Rangers look particularly dangerous when their captain is leading the attack.

He highlighted Shankland’s movement after dropping deeper to link play, pointing out that the striker frequently follows his passes with aggressive runs into the penalty area, where he is capable of turning chances into goals.

Kelsy could ultimately prove to be an excellent investment for Rangers, but Ferguson believes the Venezuelan will need time to establish himself.

With McInnes still integrating a host of new signings, Ferguson insists Shankland’s current importance to the team cannot be overstated.