Derek McInnes gained valuable insights into his new-look Rangers side as they battled to a 0-0 draw with West Ham at Ibrox. Nuno Espirito Santo's team came north for the glamour friendly, and Rangers more than matched the Premier League-bound Irons.
First-Half Impressions
McInnes handed the captain's armband to Dujon Sterling, with three new signings in the starting XI. Australian Cammy Devlin stood out with his all-action style, getting the Ibrox crowd on their feet multiple times in the first half. Ivor Pandur was alert to deal with James Ward-Prowse's tricky free-kick, while Sterling impressed with a goal-saving tackle on Brazilian ace Pablo.
Defensive Solidity
Ben Godfrey showed composure at the back, making timely interceptions to keep West Ham's front two quiet. Manny Fernandez recovered from a midweek off-day to deliver a more solid first-half display, though he had some nervy moments after the break when McInnes switched to a back three. Left-back Tuur Rommens struggled against Jared Bowen's movement and looked less assured than last season.
Midfield and Attack
Findlay Curtis, despite high expectations after a loan spell at Kilmarnock and a World Cup call-up, looks short of readiness and may benefit from another loan. Mohamed Diomande continued to frustrate, mixing silky turns with needless giveaways. Cammy Devlin earned an 8 rating for his energetic display, delighting fans with crunching tackles before being substituted at half-time. Djeidi Gassama failed to impress, delivering erratic final balls. Thelo Aasgaard showed confidence and came close with a free-kick, while Ryan Naderi offered little beyond hard work.
Second-Half Substitutes
Lawrence Shankland came closest to scoring with a header saved well. Youssef Chermiti flashed a shot wide, and Dan Neil was tidy but had two poor corners. Oliver Antman made smart runs but needs to improve his deliveries. Tochu Chukwauni had one tame shot easily saved, and Nedim Bajrami couldn't produce the needed inspiration in his brief appearance.
