Derek McInnes sparks rebirth of a Rangers star as landscape changes during World Cup watching brief
John Souttar was left out in the cold during the tail end of Rangers' campaign, benched in favour of Manny Fernandez and Nasser Djiga despite a respectable performance in an April win over Dundee United. Yet the arrival of Derek McInnes as manager and events that unfolded during Souttar's Scotland camp duties suggest a dramatic reversal of fortune may be on the horizon.
With Ben Godfrey arriving on loan from Atalanta and previous loanees Derek Cornelius and Nasser Djiga returning to their parent clubs, Souttar faces a significant opportunity. The timing could hardly be better. The partnership chosen by predecessor Michael Rohl catastrophically failed when it mattered most. Rangers conceded thirteen goals across five matches during their run-in collapse, with the title hopes destroyed. Souttar only returned for a meaningless final-day fixture.
Rohl's departure to RB Salzburg and McInnes's appointment fundamentally alter the narrative. McInnes understands the value of a strong Scottish core more than most. Even as Rohl's team imploded, the German eventually recognized the importance of mental toughness and environmental understanding that comes from being embedded in the club's culture. This is precisely what Souttar possesses.
The defender signed his contract extension in February with words suggesting a man acutely aware of what Rangers demand. McInnes has already demonstrated his philosophy by bringing in Lawrence Shankland shortly before himself. Both signings were made because they can deliver and possess a clear grasp of their surroundings, a profile Souttar perfectly fits.
To earn the new manager's trust, Souttar will need to perform. Yet McInnes appears ideally positioned to unlock what many observers consider his finest qualities. For Souttar, his best attributes emerge when his back is against the wall and defensive solidity is paramount. Reading the game and tactical toughness matter more than ball-playing ability. Under McInnes, this could be the platform for his Rangers renaissance.