Hat-trick hero desperate to build on goals

FASHION SAKALA hopes his first Rangers hat-trick can kick-start his Ibrox career after he inspired Steven Gerrard’s side to victory over Motherwell.

The champions found themselves on the back foot at Fir Park after Bevis Mugabi gave Motherwell an early lead. But Sakala came to the fore as he followed up on James Tavernier’s opener and then clinched the win just after the break.

Glen Kamara and Kemar Roofe also got on the scoresheet as Sakala completed his hat-trick with a close-range finish late on.

The Zambian had scored just once in his previous 13 appearances for Gerrard’s side following his move from Oostende, but now he is determined to move through the gears at Ibrox after his most encouraging performance for the champions.

“I would like to thank God for the first hat-trick of my career,” Sakala said. “I have to appreciate the group of players we have in the squad and the great staff that we have. They have been really supportive and they have made things a lot easier for me. That’s the most important thing for me and I really appreciate it.

“I am getting there in terms of being settled. I have been at the club for a few months now and I wouldn’t say I am fully settled but I am certainly getting there.

“I know I just have to keep on working extra hard and try and make a positive contribution to the group. That’s the most important thing for me.

“Is there more to come from me? Yes I believe there’s more to come from me. I haven’t reached the level I want to get to yet and I have to keep believing in myself and working hard. If I keep doing that every day then I believe things will be great soon.

“I got all the guys to sign [the match ball] and I will keep it safe by sleeping with it.”