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Rangers were brought back down to earth on Sunday as Steven Gerrard’s side missed the chance to return to the top of the Scottish Premiership.
The Gers could only draw 1-1 at Hearts. It was a lacklustre performance from the visitors. And Rangers were thankful to Alfredo Morelos for securing them a share of the points.
Some of the pre-international break optimism has evaporated. But Rangers should not forget that they have conceded just three goals in their last seven games, keeping five clean sheets in that run.
Unfortunately, the majority of the Ibrox faithful may suggest that the same player has been responsible for all three goals they have conceded.
James Tavernier certainly made a major error on Sunday. And it is difficult to argue with those who deemed that he was at fault for both goals Rangers conceded in their defeat to Young Boys earlier this month.
Mistakes happen. But Gerrard should not overlook the rest of Tavernier’s display at Tynecastle at the weekend. His crossing and passing was wasteful at a time when Rangers needed their captain to step up and atone for his error.
It would be a surprise if Gerrard made a change. But perhaps he should consider giving Jon Flanagan a chance at right-back for Thursday’s trip to face Porto.
Time to make change?
Flanagan has predominantly featured at left-back during his spell at Ibrox. However, he is naturally a right-back. And perhaps he should come into the side in Portugal.
Flanagan is less attacking-minded than Tavernier. But Rangers are coming up against a Porto side who have won nine of their last 10 games in all competitions.
The Gers cannot afford to make any defensive errors on Thursday. And it may be beneficial to show that no player in Gerrard’s side is guaranteed a spot in the team.
It is not ideal to consider a change. Flanagan has not played since the Old Firm defeat in September. But Tavernier’s form is causing Rangers problems and has left Gerrard with a decision to make.