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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Christopher Jack

Michael Beale targets Ryan Kent Rangers replacement and Ibrox makes defence admission

Michael Beale has confirmed he could look to bolster his Rangers defence before the close of the transfer window this summer.

And the Ibrox boss believes his side is still missing a direct replacement for Ryan Kent following his departure from club at the end of the season.

Beale has revamped his squad in recent weeks as nine deals have been done and significant fees have been spent on the likes of Sam Lammers, Cyriel Dessers and Danilo.

But Beale will remain active in the market this summer and could make further signings at both ends of the park.

“There’s a lot of speculation about it,” Beale said when asked if he could look to make a move to reinforce his defence. “The two players who are not fit at the moment, Ben and Ridvan, will return to training this week. 

“Dujon Sterling has looked like a steam train in training but it’s about looking for that moment.  

“I want some consistency in the team right now. I think that will benefit everyone, a little bit of consistency, so you are only rotating through tiredness or injury at the moment. 

“But look, it’s an area we may look to do something. We’re speaking to different players. But at this moment in time I’ve got to make sure it makes us stronger. 

“The options I’m looking at, their teams don’t want to lose them either.

“If you look at the forward areas, we lost Malik, Antonio, Morelos, Kent and Fashion Sakala. 

“We’ve lost five and brought four in. You’re hoping Kemar or Tom Lawrence will make a massive impact this year, that they weren’t able to do last year. 

“The one area we’re probably a little bit light is someone like a Ryan Kent. Whether we’ll get there between now and the end of the window, or do we find that within in our squad? Time will tell. 

“Every emotion has been heightened in our support obviously because of last weekend’s result. I’m aware of that. But I believe this team and these players will come good. 

“It’s got a different look to it. It’s got a different feel to it. We’ve got to allow that to play out.”

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