In an attempt to get fans back onside, the 49ers recently shared a key data comparison in defence of one of their summer signings at Rangers – comparing him to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Cavenagh backs Thelwell and Stewart
After missing out on Steven Gerrard and Kevin Muscat before eventually landing on Danny Rohl, Rangers chiefs Andrew Cavenagh, Kevin Thelwell and Patrick Stewart all met with fans to discuss the 49ers’ plans with the Gers going forward.
The new owners have been met with plenty of criticism in recent weeks, with banners unveiled at Ibrox and the likes of Thelwell finding themselves at the centre of fan frustration following what looks like a disastrous summer transfer window. Now, however, the 49ers have had their chance to have their say and face up to a disgruntled crowd.
Hosting a fan session in an attempt to get supporters back onside, Cavenagh reiterated his backing for both Thelwell and Stewart even after recent mistakes.
“They do retain my full backing. Everybody makes mistakes and I know we have made some missteps along the way. We own it. If you make a mistake you need to try and improve and we’re committed to improving, that goes for everybody at this football club. It’s Patrick, it’s Kevin, it’s myself, it’s Paraag (Marathe, vice chairman).
“Going forward we’re all accountable. Our message is that we recognise their frustration. We know why they’re frustrated, we’re frustrated because results have not at all been where we want.”
The words are certainly positive, but those at Ibrox will now want to see action. They will be desperate to see new manager Rohl get off to the perfect start against Brann this Thursday and for one attacking talent to prove the 49ers right once and for all in Scotland.
Rangers compare Chermiti to Calvert-Lewin
Whilst they were quick to admit a number of mistakes, the 49ers also launched a defence for Youssef Chermiti. The summer arrival cost as much as £10m on deadline day, but is yet to score a goal for the club or show any signs of making his mark at Rangers.
The 49ers still back their striker, however, and even went as far as to compare him to former Everton star and current Leeds United forward Calvert-Lewin in their recent fan meeting, revealing the 6 foot 4 youngster is a physical specimen.
It’s a bold comparison but one that the 49ers have made based on physical data. Whether Chermiti proves them right is now the big question. At his very best, Calvert-Lewin scored 21 goals in all competitions for Everton in the 2020/21 season, but Rangers’ owners believe that their new striker could be better than that based on the data they’ve seen.