'Exceptional' - Pundit stunned by what Rangers ace did at the death vs Olympiacos

Ally McCoist was delighted by John Souttar’s “exceptional” work late as Rangers held out for a creditable draw away to Olympiacos.

The Light Blues’ record scorer reacted live on the TNT Sports match commentary on 7 November as the Scotland international’s tight defence blocked one of the home side’s late forays into the Gers box in the 92nd minute, knocking the ball against Charalampos Kostoulas and out for a goal kick.

Philippe Clement’s side came back from a goal down to equalise through Cyriel Dessers, and despite another uncertain performance from Robin Propper held out for a 1-1 draw as McCoist praised Souttar, and the referee for not awarding the corner.

He said (7.36pm): “John Souttar does exceptionally well there, he really does. It’s good refereeing and it’s equally good defending because they’ve both got it right.”

Rangers lift some pressure off Philippe Clement in Europa League

Souttar appears the clear first choice at centre-back for Rangers now, following a slow start to life after his arrival from Hearts.

He remains far from infallible, as the late Kilmarnock winner in the 1-0 defeat on 20 October demonstrated, but with Propper so far a disappointing signing as he rotates with Leon Balogun and Neraysho Kasanwirjo the Scot is the most consistent.

His work at the end was positive and contributed to another impressive team performance away in Europe, following the 2-0 win at Malmo on 26 September.

Scraping through at Hampden and a point in the Europa League isn’t enough to cancel out the three dismal defeats in the Scottish Premiership already this term but indicates the squad are at least still playing for Clement.

The Ibrox hierarchy appear to be prepared to stick with the Belgian whatever the struggle this term [BBC Sport, 1 November] but he needs to show there is something building to avoid losing the fanbase entirely.

There have been false dawns before this term, the win at Malmo above all, but this time the positivity from the past two games must be built on against Hearts at the weekend (10 November).

In other Rangers news, a “massive blow” to Clement’s side could hurt their chances of finally getting a win against Celtic in the League Cup final.

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