Kris Boyd maps out Rangers January transfer necessities ALREADY as two summer arrivals fail to convince

It is fair to say Rangers still have a way to go in strengthening their squad if catching Celtic is their target, which it has to be.

Gers did some deals in the summer but probably not as many as expected with just as much focus on getting players out the door to free up funds. Some of the players brought in look up to standard while some don't but what is clear to see is that the Hoops still look quite a bit ahead.

That means they will likely look to do more business in January and acting chairman John Gilligan has insisted there will be money for Philippe Clement to spend while giving his full backing to the manager. Despite four clean sheets in the last four games, Boyd reckons the defence needs looked at.

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The pundit remains unconvinced by Robin Propper at centre-back and by Jefte playing as a conventional left-back. He'd also like to see a proper midfield enforced brought in.

He told Sky Sports: "I think it's like everything, you're always looking to improve. At big clubs, you're looking to improve all over the pitch.

"For me, I know it's been four clean sheets in five for Rangers, but I still look defensively and think there could be improvement there. I look at Jefte - I know he puts in some lovely balls but I'm yet to be convinced as a natural left-back.

"And (Robin Propper has come in and done okay, whether it's the long-term answer needed for Rangers, I'm not sure. There may be defensive reinforcements needed defensively.

"Obviously James Tavernier's future is always spoken about and a lot of it is not right but it's just what happens whenever you lose a a game of football, James Tavernier seems to get the blame.

"I think as well, Connor Barron and Diomande have come in but I don't really see a midfielder that goes and takes the game by the scruff of the neck and controls a game of football. That might be something Philippe Clement looks to try and get in, they won't come cheap."