Rangers Solidify Squad as International Break Approaches
Rangers sit in second place in the Scottish Premiership, four points behind Celtic while holding a game in hand. Their recent 2-0 victory against St Mirren on Saturday marked head coach Derek McInnes’ impressive unbeaten domestic streak of 12 matches. The team has benefited from Ivor Pandur’s solid defensive performances, as well as Ryan Naderi’s contributions, which include nine goals and five assists. This success contrasts with their early struggles during European qualifying.
After suffering a groin injury in a 2-1 loss to Hibernian on August 9, McInnes lost his first-choice left-back. He acknowledged that the team was “playing with fire” in terms of depth. To address this issue, James Penrice joined Rangers from AEK Athens on a season-long loan with an option to buy. The 27-year-old, who has been a lifelong supporter and was part of last season’s Greek championship team, made a significant impact by scoring on his debut and receiving a call-up to the Scotland national team. He also partnered with Nicolas Raskin in midfield during the League Cup semi-final against Aberdeen.
That crucial match on October 31 saw the original left-back return to the lineup. Dan Neil substituted him off after 65 minutes, allowing Penrice to revert to his conventional position, where his low cross assisted Naderi’s winner in the 83rd minute, securing a spot in the final on December 13. Penrice’s ability to organise teammates, deliver precise crosses, and drift into attacking positions has impressed McInnes, who is eager to secure a permanent deal for him.
Rangers Dismiss Sale of Tuur Rommens
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke has reported that Rangers plan to retain Tuur Rommens despite the 23-year-old making only two starts in the Premiership this season. While the club anticipates that Penrice’s loan will transition to a permanent move, McInnes views Rommens as an essential part of the long-term strategy and expects him to compete for the left-back position once he returns to full fitness.
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, Rommens effectively advances the ball from the left flank and notably scored the decisive goal against St Mirren in March. Although concerns have been raised regarding his pace and defensive intensity, these factors become crucial as Rangers aim to close the gap with Celtic.
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Rangers Should Retain Tuur Rommens
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 13: Tuur Rommens of Rangers warms up prior to the William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Hibernian at Ibrox Stadium on May 13, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Retention of Rommens is advisable, rather than relegating him to a bench role. While Penrice appears to be a sensible candidate for a permanent signing, he remains on loan until the club activates the purchase option, and McInnes has already employed him in midfield. The team requires a seasoned left-back behind him, as Rommens holds a contract lasting until 2029.
Parting with Rommens would leave Rangers vulnerable to injury setbacks, particularly in the context of the League Cup final, ongoing Scottish Cup, and title race. McInnes should consider using Rommens against teams that play defensively, where his width and ability to progress play would prove valuable. Rangers’ investment of approximately £3 million in Rommens, noted by Club Brugge early in his tenure, should not be squandered by a premature sale before he has had a chance to prove himself over a full season.
