Iconic former Rangers star Brian Laudrup has urged Gio van Bronckhorst to find a consistency to his team selection.
The Ibrox boss is seeking solutions amid their bruising Champions League campaign which has resulted in four definitive defeats. Last week's 7-1 trouncing at the hands of Liverpool only added to the Dutchman's woes, however, they gritted out a 2-1 win over Motherwell at the weekend to remain two points behind leaders Celtic.
But Laudrup believes the key for long-term success is consistent team selection and the Danish wing king admits he was left baffled by Fashion Sakala being left in reserve at Fir Park despite his recent upturn in form. The 53-year-old believes finding the right formula is imperative before the winter break. Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: "You can see it's a team lacking a bit of confidence. At the end of last season, after losing the Europa League Final and winning the Scottish Cup, Rangers felt really tough to beat. They looked like a side that never gave up and could run all day.
"You have to say there's been something missing in many of the games this season. A single cause is very difficult to identify. Lots of things have come together, including injuries and the slow impact of some summer additions. I also feel the management team could help themselves a little more in some of their selections.
"Look at Fashion Sakala. He played very well against St Mirren, scored a goal and set one up. He then played 75 minutes against Liverpool but wasn't involved at all on Sunday. Unless there is a fitness issue, I find that a bit puzzling. When you are striving for consistency and stability, you have to build on the players who are actually performing. They bring confidence to the team and can help drag others along with them.
" Van Bronckhorst obviously sees the players on a daily basis at training. I don't. But my experience of difficult periods is that you need to stick quite close to a starting XI where possible and not be making too many unnecessary changes. Some players maybe need the benefit of the doubt and assurance they will play the next three games. To do well in one Premiership game and not play in the next is strange.
"For me, personally, that was something I struggled with when I went to Chelsea after Rangers. It's difficult to find your rhythm. And missing rhythm is a factor right now in certain positions at Ibrox."
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