If Rangers recruited Jonny Evans to Ibrox, they might transform not only their defence but also the leadership level in the dressing room.
Following a board suggestion from Sky Sports analyst Kris Boyd, the Manchester United veteran has been linked to a transfer north to join Philippe Clement’s team [Daily Record, 7 January]. The Gers, who are vying for the two realistic awards that remain, would make a statement by signing him.
Evans, who turned 37 last week, may start his final years of a remarkable career by joining the Rangers, which would be a huge boost on and off the pitch.
In addition to contributing significantly to the defence despite his advanced age, the Northern Irishman, who has been capped an incredible 107 times by his country, would undoubtedly have an immediate energising impact.
Rangers can’t ignore Jonny Evans’ opportunity.
Evans has been overlooked for a large portion of his career. The glittering variety of top-flight teammates will frequently take the credit for having played for teams like Manchester United in two stints, Leicester City, and West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.
Although he initially trained at Carrington to stay fit as a free agent, his unexpected return to Old Trafford in the summer of 2023 has resulted in 42 appearances to date, providing a consistent presence amongst the turmoil that has beset one of the top teams in the world.
As a United player, Evans is aware of the pressure and still feels it. Given his background, which started as a professional 19 years ago, he should be widely respected at Ibrox. He has the ability to elevate the team to a level not seen since the 55th Scottish title in 2021.
The injury of John Souttar, who is without a doubt one of Clement’s best players this season, was devastating, and those who initially dismissed him have given Leon Balogun, who is about Evans’ age, his due.
Despite being in his late thirties, Evans’ performance for the Red Devils astounded everyone, and his professionalism has been unmatched over the years. Evans is the kind of player the dressing room is begging for at a time when Govan needs to undergo a lot of changes in order for the Light Blues to be able to compete with Celtic once more.
