Former Bristol City manager Lee Johnson has said that Ryan Kent must take his game to the next level for Glasgow Rangers during the 2020/21 campaign.
Johnson was Kent’s boss during his time at the Robins on loan from Liverpool in 2018, with him creating two goals in 11 matches for the Championship outfit. Since then, Kent has signed for the ‘Gers for a fee of £7m, but he is yet to set Ibrox alight with his displays, instead coming in for criticism at times.
Talking to the Daily Record, Johnson said:
“I’m certain that Ryan can get better and have a big season for Rangers this year. He’s still a young player, you have to remember that.
“Rangers are an unbelievable club, who are trying to close that gap on Celtic.
“And you can see signs of it at various different times. Ryan now has to take his game to the next level.
“He’s got a very good manager in Steven and one that really believes in him, which is important. Ryan will feel that belief.
“And I think it’ll be an interesting season up there.”
The Light Blues’ outlay on Kent was significant and, whilst he hasn’t been a flop, Steven Gerrard will have hoped for a better return than the eight goals and four assists the £3.15m-valued Liverpudlian managed in 32 matches last season.
This upcoming campaign is one of the utmost importance for Gerrard after two years without a trophy – the former Liverpool captain can surely not afford to go a third without silverware. As the ‘Gers look to close a 13-point gap to Celtic at the top of the Premiership table, a strong season from Kent would give them a huge boost and a stronger chance of doing so.
‘Gers fans, do you expect more from Kent next season? Let us know what you think by commenting below!