Mark Walters, the former Rangers winger, has warned the club's current wide players that they must start delivering goals and assists if they are to succeed at Ibrox. Speaking about the pressure facing Derek McInnes' side in their title bid, the 62-year-old said the likes of Kim Min-su, Badredine Bouanani and Djeidi Gassama have shown a good attitude so far but need to add more end product.
Walters on the demands of being a Rangers winger
Walters, who joined Rangers from Aston Villa almost 40 years ago and had to impress Graeme Souness and Walter Smith before replacing Ibrox icon Davie Cooper, said creating chances was the most important part of the role. "In my day, it was first and foremost about creating. That's the most important thing," he said.
He added: "But most importantly, you've got to create as a Rangers winger - and then add the odd goal or two as well. That's what's important for the team and obviously the fans enjoy it as well." Walters admitted he always aimed to reach double figures for goals despite playing out wide, and was often disappointed if he did not score or create chances.
Current wide men yet to deliver numbers
Walters, who won three titles and a League Cup at Rangers before following Souness to Liverpool, said the current wingers are doing a decent job but have not yet been rewarded with goals and assists. "Unfortunately, I haven't seen them live yet but from watching them on TV, they have a good attitude," he said. "They want to get forward and make things happen."
He stressed the need for bravery in the role: "You've got to be brave as a Rangers winger. You have to want the ball even when you know you're going to get smashed." Walters also noted that games against 'lower' teams can be tight with little space, making it harder to create opportunities.
Pressure at Ibrox is unique
Walters, who also played for Aston Villa and Liverpool, said the intensity in Glasgow was like nowhere else. "The pressure at Rangers is unique," he said. "But with Rangers, it's what you sign up for and I thoroughly enjoyed that pressure." He praised McInnes for restoring togetherness and camaraderie in the dressing room, saying it is vital for the team.
"It's pleasing that Derek seems to be getting back to that at Rangers," he said. "At that club, there's only one way and that's the Rangers way. If no-one wants to get on board, they have to leave. But thankfully, it looks like things are turning round."
Walters will be signing copies of the paperback edition of his autobiography Wingin' It at The Western Club in Glasgow on November 27. Tickets for the signing and Q&A cost £10.
