Lawrence Shankland has started Rangers' last two games on the bench, raising the question of whether handing him the captaincy was a mistake from Derek McInnes. The Saturday Jury panel gives their verdict.
Shankland's leadership under the spotlight
Michael Gannon said the decision was understandable, noting Shankland was a leader for Derek McInnes at Hearts so he knows what he brings to the role. He added that it puts a lot on the striker's shoulders, who is also trying to find his feet as a Rangers player among so many new faces at the club. If he's not the first name on the team sheet each week, it becomes an issue, but there doesn't look to be too many other candidates right now.
Andrew Newport pointed out that Derek McInnes this week defended that decision, insisting Shankland's capacity to lead off the field is just as vital as it is on it. But he said there's no doubt that for the skipper to shine, he needs better quality up alongside him to deliver service, adding that the frontman is only as good as the crosses that come his way.
Fraser Wilson said not at all, describing Shankland as a natural leader whether he's on the pitch for Rangers or not. He said Shankland has not had the impact he'd have liked in front of goal yet, but get the supply right and he will fire.
Celtic's transfer window priorities
With Celtic having one foot in the Champions League and less than two weeks left of the window, the panel assessed what areas they still need to strengthen.
Michael said it's about strength in depth for Celtic. They need midfield muscle to replace Arne Engels. A right back would be handy if Alistair Johnston is out long term again, along with cover for left back and keeper. Another wide man on loan until Jota is fit would be the final piece in the jigsaw.
Andrew said the Hoops have been free scoring, but what's clear from the first few games of the season is that they're giving up way too many chances at the other end. Sooner or later that will catch them out unless they can find a proper midfield destroyer to help plug the holes in their engine room.
Fraser said some might think right back, but he'd love to see young Colby Donovan get a proper run there in Alistair Johnston's absence after his assured display against LASK. A keeper to challenge Viljami Sinisalo is required, but the biggest priority is the centre of midfield where there's a big Arne Engels shaped hole to fill.
Dundee derby prediction
On the first big derby of the Premiership season in Dundee today, Michael said both sides have looked decent in spells so far, despite results not always matching performances. The pair have defensive concerns, and it could make for a wild afternoon. They might need to settle for a share of the spoils after a goalfest.
Andrew noted United have been hemorrhaging goals at an alarming rate recently while Dundee were looking good before their Pittodrie pasting from Aberdeen. He said a score draw sounds like a decent result for both.
Fraser said it'll be tight but said let's not sit on the fence here. United are coming off of two 4-0 wallopings and despite causing Celtic problems last week they are looking vulnerable at the back. Dundee are missing Simon Murray, but he still fancies them to have the firepower to pick up bragging rights on enemy territory.
Scotland manager's first priority
Sebastien Pocognoli is settling into life as Scotland manager. Michael said his first big priority is changing Scotland's mindset. The Tartan Army wants to see the side being a bit more adventurous, and it's going to take a big shift in style if he's going to implement the aggressive, attacking philosophy he promises. He needs to get the squad buying into it right from the get-go.
Andrew said getting the senior figures on board with his vision for the future, though he can't see that being an issue given the staleness that crept into the squad in the final days of the Clarke era. After that, it will be addressing the gaps in the team, especially in goals and up front. He hopes Robbie Ure gets his chance next month.
Fraser said using the opportunity of a clean slate to identify fresh faces and begin a changing of the guard from campaigners who have done the country proud but are now past their best. Not wholesale changes, but four or five who can fit into the front foot aggressive style Pocognoli wants to adopt.
