Rangers must strengthen spine of team, says Rae
lightweight and got bullied out of games too often. And that’s something Caixinha is already looking to change.
“Tactically, we’ll have to wait and see. Right now, Rangers are used to 4-3-3, having played that way for 20 months under Warburton, so it will be interesting to see if and how he changes that formation, and where he uses certain players within the set-up he chooses.”
Ibrox chairman Dave King will hold talks with Caixinha next week as Rangers step up their preparations for another shot at the Premiership next term.
The Gers boss will be given funds in the summer to bolster his ranks and Rae reckons loan stars Emerson Hyndman and Jon Toral could be amongst the recruits.
He said: “I think the manager will see the current Rangers squad as a blank canvas. He’ll give everyone a chance between now and the end of the season – and see how they all do on their audition for him.
“However, while there are some very good players in the current squad, Rangers need to strengthen throughout the spine of the team this summer. They need another centre-half, especially with Hill turning 39 later this year, and a midfielder who can really pull the strings.
“I’d also say they could do with some extra firepower up front. Rangers have been wasteful in front of goal at times this season. There have been games where they’ve dominated play and created changes, but failed to win.
“I personally think that trying to secure Hyndman and Jon Toral – both on loan – on permanent deals would be a good move, but I’m sure the manager will have other targets in mind too. Especially so as he has so many connections in world football.
“A lot of managers look to bring in players who have done a turn for them in the past – so I wouldn’t be surprised to see him reunite with some of the guys he’s managed in Portugal, Qatar or Mexico.”