With nearly the whole Rangers squad absent and forced substitutions at halftime, Philippe Clement couldn’t have asked for a more difficult test at Old Trafford.
When Cyriel Dessers scored a spectacular equaliser, the manager was on the verge of doing a miracle, but Jefte and the defence were unable to withstand the siege.
Bailey Rice was one player who was given a chance and who made an impression after putting in a lot of effort during the game. Rio Ferdinand praised the Rangers academy product during commentary.
Bailey Rice gets praised for Rangers’ performance against Manchester United.
With a strong chance of passing, Rice is the gem in Auchenhowie’s crown.
However, Alex Lowry, who has since joined Wycombe Wanderers, may have been considered similarly.
Ferdinand couldn’t help but compliment Rice as he played compatriot Cyriel Dessers in behind Manchester United’s defence with a clever through ball:
The former Manchester United defender admitted, “I tell you what, I’m liking Rice by the way. He’s come on and looked composed. The kid’s got something about him, and he’s got a lovely left foot on him.”
Ally McCoist added his own words of admiration, praising Rice’s impact on the proceedings in spite of facing a number of seasoned international players.
Is Clement going to give Rice another chance now?
Clement must now understand that he can be relied upon to perform against SPFL-level opposition if Rice can do it at Old Trafford against this level of opposition.
Rice and Mohamed Diomande are the only midfield alternatives if Connor Barron is sidelined for an extended period of time due to Kieran Dowell’s exclusion.
With the Scottish Premiership title virtually decided, Clement has no justifications for not starting a player who is obviously technically capable of playing in Rangers’ midfield.
He also has the mentality, based on his performance at Old Trafford.
