There is never an ideal time to get an injury, of course, but the condition that had kept one Rangers player out since October felt especially harsh in its timing.
Like Rabbi Matondo, the Rangers winger who was forced to spend months on the treatment table after scoring twice and assisting twice in a 6-0 thrashing of Ross County, Tom Lawrence’s lengthy absence put a stop to his own promising start.
Lawrence had five goals and two assists before being substituted in Aberdeen’s 2-1 defeat four months ago.
Now, with Turkey looking for another Rangers star – Besiktas reportedly interested in the Wales international months after Trabzonspor signed John Lundstram and Borna Barisic – one wonders if Lawrence has worn the renowned blue shirt for the final time.
Promotion-chasing Burnley and Sheffield United are also allegedly interested in signing Lawrence south of the border.
The thought of playing Premier League football will undoubtedly appeal. Especially with the 31-year-old’s contract expiring this summer and Nedim Bajrami assuming the number 10 spot in Lawrence’ absence.
Burnley are reportedly interested in signing Rangers midfielder Tom Lawrence.
“I saw a lot of Tom Lawrence when he was at Derby, and he’s a good player,” former EFL star Clinton Morrison tells Football League World. “It hasn’t really worked out [at Rangers] through injuries and not getting enough game time.”
Morrison’s assessment is possibly slightly unjust.
Lawrence may not have played quite as much as he would have wanted (56 appearances in two and a half years), but when completely healthy, the Manchester United youth graduate has frequently left a strong impression on the Rangers fans.
Burnley, who have the fewest goals among the Championship’s top five teams, could surely profit from Lawrence’s signature long-range shooting and skill between the lines.
Scott Parker’s side is also interested in Morgan Whittaker, who was previously linked with Rangers. But, with the Plymouth Argyle artisan out of form, there is a case to be made that Lawrence would be a better, albeit riskier, option.
Burnley manager Scott Parker is interested in ex-Ibrox striker Morgan Whittaker.
“I think if a player like that becomes available, you definitely have a look at him for your squad,” adds Morrison, who has played for Sheffield Wednesday, Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, and Coventry.
“I do not believe it would be a negative signing. If they are unable to secure Whittaker, Burnley may consider Lawrence. It would be a good indication.
“If Lawrence is available, you don’t turn your nose up at that.”
Rangers lost a number of seasoned players on free transfers during the last two summers. Ryan Jack, Ryan Kent, Filip Helander, Allan McGregor, and Alfredo Morelos all left Ibrox for nothing, as did the aforementioned Lundstram and Barisic.
With Tom Lawrence apparently earning more than £20,000 per week at Rangers, Philippe Clement’s team may be wary of signing a 30-year-old, injury-prone midfielder to new terms.
Meanwhile, Rabbi Matondo appeared to be on his way to Coventry, but negotiations fell through.
