RANGERS HANDED BOOST TO SIGN STRUGGLING MIDFIELDER – BUT IS HE WORTH IT?
For a club like Rangers, whose history is steeped in triumphs, European nights, and a standard of excellence that fans expect at every turn, the notion of bringing in a player who has yet to make an impact at the highest level raises eyebrows. Sunderland’s latest midfield target has featured just three times in the Premier League, registering 0 goals and 0 assists, leaving serious doubts about whether he is capable of stepping up to the demands of Scottish football and European competition.
The young midfielder’s journey from Sunderland’s academy to their first team has been notable in theory, but in reality, Dan Neil has struggled to translate his Championship form to the top-flight. Limited minutes and minimal influence in matches have marked his brief Premier League stint, and yet Rangers are reportedly ready to pursue a deal, potentially taking a gamble on someone who has yet to prove himself at the highest level.
Manager Regis Le Bris confirmed that Dan Neil must make a decision about his immediate future, signaling Sunderland’s openness to offers. “He’s still connected with the club, but at this stage, he has to make a choice. Sunderland want to respect the player, but the market is unpredictable,” Le Bris said. Despite the positive framing, Dan Neil’s record in England’s top flight leaves fans questioning whether this signing is truly justified.
Even Sunderland legend Lee Cattermole tempered expectations. “He had a good run in the Championship, but at this level, he’s still finding his feet. Playing time is key, but it’s a big step up from what he’s achieved so far,” Cattermole said. That candid assessment raises serious questions: can Dan Neil contribute meaningfully to Rangers, or is this a signing more about potential than proven ability?
Danny Rohl has already strengthened his midfield this January, securing Tochi Chukwuani for £3.5million and preparing a potential loan for Wolfsburg’s Andreas Skov Olsen. Against that backdrop, Dan Neil’s record—essentially invisible at Premier League level—casts serious doubt over whether he belongs in a squad aiming for domestic glory and European competitiveness.
While Rangers may have been handed a boost in their pursuit, the reality remains stark: Dan Neil has yet to score, assist, or truly make his mark in England’s top tier. Fans will naturally question why the club would gamble on a player with such limited top-flight credentials. In a squad where every signing must hit the ground running, Dan Neil’s arrival could raise more concerns than excitement.
