Rangers manager Steven Gerrard says John Lundstram is beginning to prove his critics wrong with his most recent performances for the club.
Supporters were very critical of the summer signing’s displays in the opening month of the season, but Gerrard says he never doubted the 27-year-old for a second:
“He was the best player on the pitch by a mile [against Dundee]. I’ve been almost smiling in disbelief at some of the reaction on the outside. I keep an eye on everything inside and outside, John is a fantastic player. He’s been finding his feet, it takes time to get up to speed and it takes time to learn how people play.”
Fans on Twitter have been praising Lundstram for recovering from his tough start at the club and they are hoping it’s a sign of things to come:
Great performance
— Gary Shand 🇬🇧 (@whiskyATP) September 26, 2021
He’s grew into the jersey 👏🏼
— Briz (@kilcoyne_brian) September 25, 2021
It took him a few games to get up to speed but as a holding midfielder he’s been solid.
— John (@ScalareSorpasso) September 25, 2021
We need to give players time. Barasic took over a year to settle in and win over the fans
— Sugar Douglas (@SugarDouglas) September 25, 2021
What a player x
— 𝗝 (@JamieRFC14) September 25, 2021
In music terms, he’s classed as a “grower”
— Reji (@RejiTheVeji) September 25, 2021
Glad he’s growing into the shirt. I was always impressed watching him for Sheff Utd
— Kenny Robinson (@KennyRo72222630) September 25, 2021
As Gerrard says, sometimes players need time to settle into their new surroundings. Lundstram was used to a particular brand of football at his previous club, Sheffield United, and he has had to adapt his game.
Lundstram has certainly not won everyone over with his performances in the last few games, but it is definitely something to build upon, and he will be hoping to put in another good display against Sparta Prague on Thursday night.