He's big enough and scoring goals - Rangers legend backs Super Eagles striker Dessers to become Ibrox icon

Cyriel Dessers celebrates one of his goals at the Ibrox on Saturday. (Photo Credit: Rangers/X)

He's big enough and scoring goals - Rangers legend backs Super Eagles striker Dessers to become Ibrox icon

Izuchukwu Akawor 13:44 - 30.03.2024

Nigeria's Cyriel Dessers has not convinced many at Rangers despite contributing over 20 goals across competitions.

For Nigeria’s Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers, who joined Rangers last summer, the pressure to impress and perform has been immense for his new club.

But Pulse Sports Nigeria can report that former Gers's captain Lee McCulloch believes the Nigerian former has the mettle to write his own Ibrox story.

Dessers back to shine at Rangers

Despite the striker's tally of 16 goals and seven assists this season across competition, it appears that the Nigerian forward has not convinced many with his ability.

But per a Daily Record report, McCulloch acknowledged that the scrutiny that comes with donning the famous blue jersey can be unforgiving.

Cyriel Dessers has contributed 14 goals in just 18 starts for Rangers in the league this season.
Cyriel Dessers has contributed 14 goals in just 18 starts for Rangers in the league this season.

"Any player can write their own story," McCulloch asserted, highlighting the opportunities that lie ahead for Dessers.

"A centre half can go and score the winner in both the Old Firm games in the last minute and become heroes. Any player can do that, write their own story."

Ex-Rangers skipper Lee McCulloch during his time as Heart of Midlothian assistant manager
Ex-Rangers skipper Lee McCulloch during his time as Heart of Midlothian assistant manager. (Photo Credit: Imago)

"You could pick three or four players in each of the Old Firm teams and say they've been under pressure this season. It's part and parcel. He's big enough and good enough to cope with it," the former Rangers skipper said.

For McCulloch, Dessers' ability to thrive in the cauldron of the Old Firm is a testament to his character and quality.

Cyriel Dessers celebrating his goal against Ghana with the team (Photo Credit: Oganla Media/X)

"Dessers is scoring goals, he's scored goals this season. He's done well, especially so at times in Europe," the ex-midfielder remarked, highlighting the striker's contributions both domestically and on the continental stage.

With the season still unfolding, McCulloch believes that the opportunity for Dessers to cement his legacy at Ibrox remains.

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"There's a lot of football to be played, so there's a chance for everybody," he noted, alluding to the ever-changing landscape of the Scottish Premiership.

However, the former Rangers captain is under no illusions about the pressures that come with playing for the Gers.

Cyriel Dessers celebrates his latest goal for Rangers. (Photo Credit: Rangers/X)

"There's always a lot of pressure playing for Rangers, whatever your position. A striker, a goalie – especially when making mistakes," McCulloch acknowledged.

As Dessers returns to Scotland after scoring during the international break for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, McCulloch's unwavering belief in the striker's ability to write his own Ibrox story will undoubtedly provide a vital source of support.

With the backing of his teammates and the club's faithful, it’d be interesting to see if the Belgian-born forward can eventually etch his name in the storied history of the Gers.

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