Steven Naismith Questions Decision to Bench Cyriel Dessers in Rangers’ Win Over St. Johnstone

Former Everton and Rangers midfielder Steven Naismith has criticised Rangers’ head coach Philippe Clement for leaving Cyriel Dessers on the bench during the team’s 1-0 win against St. Johnstone.

The 29-year-old Nigerian striker joined Rangers last season as the team’s main forward but has struggled with consistency, making it hard to win over the Ibrox fans.

Clement previously benched Dessers during Rangers’ UEFA Europa League match against OGC Nice, opting for Moroccan striker Hamza Igamane instead. Igamane scored twice before being substituted for Dessers, who missed a close-range chance to score. Following this, Dessers remained on the bench for the St. Johnstone game and did not play.

Naismith, who played for Rangers between 2007 and 2012, sympathised with Clement’s difficult situation but felt the treatment of Dessers was harsh.

“The manager’s biggest frustration is having three forwards who all offer something different,” Naismith told BBC Sportscene. “For any Rangers striker, consistency is key. Dessers has contributed the most goals, but he’s faced criticism lately.”

When asked who should lead the Rangers attack, Naismith said it depends on the team’s opponents.

“Igamane had a fantastic game midweek, showing calmness in front of goal and working hard to create chances. But against St. Johnstone, his performance was less effective. The fact that Clement chose Danilo over Dessers shows he’s unsure about all three forwards,” Naismith added.

Despite the challenges, Dessers has been one of Rangers’ most productive players this season. In 22 matches, he has scored 10 goals and provided two assists, giving him the highest goal contributions in the team since his move from Cremonese last summer.

However, Clement’s search for a consistent striker continues as Rangers aim to improve their attacking performances.