STEVEN Gerrard has admitted he has been pleased with Matt Polster’s performances at right back for Rangers - and could switch him to central midfield when captain James Tavernier is fit enough to start again.
Polster came on for Jon Flanagan at half-time in the Ladbrokes Premiership match against Hearts at Tynecastle last Sunday and, even though the defender was unable to prevent his side from slumping to a 2-1 defeat, Gerrard was impressed with his display.
Tavernier, who underwent a minor procedure on his appendix earlier this month, was on the Rangers bench for the league meeting with Aberdeen at Ibrox yesterday and should reclaim his first team place soon.
However, Gerrard, who squared up to United States internationalist Polster during his time at MLS franchise LA Galaxy, believes the versatile player could provide cover for injured Ryan Jack when his skipper has fully recovered.
"His (Polster) performance when he came on against Hearts was really good, really strong,” he said. “He was one of a few players I was pleased with come the end of the game. That earned him the start against Ross County and again it was positive performance.
“It was a performance that still needs polishing up. We've analysed every time he's touched the ball, where he is positionally. We'll go through that with him. He's capable of being an option in that position if there's any issues with James.
“The advantage with Matt and the reason I'm not panicking with Ryan Jack's short-term injury is, with James back, Matt also gives us good cover as a centre midfielder. I played against Matt both as a right-back and a central midfielder when I was in the MLS and both times he shone.
“That's what made me aware of him in the first place and that gives him an advantage in getting onto the pitch, getting more appearances and growing here as a Rangers player - that he's capable of playing in two positions.”
Polster, who had only made four first team appearances prior to the Hearts match, missed Rangers’ winter training camp in Dubai because he was getting married in Las Vegas. But Gerrard revealed he had returned to Glasgow in good spirits and had grasped his chance firmly with both hands.
"That was something that was in place before he came, which we knew about,” he said. “The timing was fine because of the winter break. He came back after the wedding really happy - he'll learn - but he's took that smiling, happy mood into his performances.
“He's been waiting a while for his opportunity, a real strong opportunity, and it has come his way and it looks as if he's going to take it. Credit to him, but he's never been a problem since day one and every time we've used him, whether it be in a small cameo or from the start he's always gave a good account of himself.”
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