Rangers coach Derek McInnes welcomes Tochi Chukwuani’s impact in St Johnstone win

Rangers head coach Derek McInnes has welcomed Tochi Chukwuani’s contribution after the midfielder came off the bench to score in the Light Blues’ emphatic 4-0 victory over St Johnstone at Ibrox on Saturday.

The Nigerian-born midfielder capped the convincing win in the closing stages, finishing calmly after Djeidi Gassama pulled the ball back into his path. Chukwuani replaced Kevin Kelsy in the 83rd minute before finding the net to complete the scoring.

His late strike provided another positive moment for the 22-year-old, who has yet to start a Scottish Premiership match this season despite featuring in all three of Rangers’ cup fixtures.

McInnes was particularly pleased to see his attacking players get on the scoresheet, with Chukwuani among those who benefited from the opportunity to make an impact during the comfortable home victory.

McInnes praises Chukwuani’s contribution

Rangers made several changes during the match as McInnes sought to give more players valuable minutes, but the substitutions did little to disrupt the team’s attacking rhythm.

Kelsy scored twice before making way, while Ryan Naderi also found the net as Rangers established a commanding advantage against St Johnstone.

Chukwuani then took his opportunity in the closing minutes, applying a composed finish to round off the performance and give his manager another reason to be pleased with the squad’s contribution.

“We made a lot of changes to try and get the boys minutes, but we scored three goals,” McInnes said to BBC Sport.

“I’m delighted for my centre forwards to get amongst the goals, delighted for Tochi Chukwuani to get amongst it as well and getting the fourth goal.

“And I think the scoreline was just about right, you know, because in terms of chances created and some of the opportunities, but it’s a learning curve for us as well.”

The Rangers manager’s comments highlighted the importance of players taking advantage of their opportunities, particularly those who have struggled to secure regular starting roles.

For Chukwuani, the goal offered a timely reminder of his attacking contribution as he continues to compete for a more prominent position in the team.

Limited league opportunities raise January questions

Chukwuani has found opportunities in the Scottish Premiership difficult to come by this season, having yet to make a league start despite being involved in Rangers’ cup campaigns.

The former Denmark Under-21 international joined the Scottish giants during the winter transfer window and made 18 appearances in the second half of last season, scoring three goals.

His latest strike against St Johnstone adds to that tally and could strengthen his case for more playing time as the campaign progresses.

However, his limited involvement in league matches has also fuelled speculation about his future, with a possible January departure reportedly under consideration as he seeks more regular first-team football.

The midfielder will hope his performance against St Johnstone helps him earn further opportunities, although his long-term prospects at Ibrox remain uncertain.

Chukwuani makes his case for a bigger role

Rangers’ comprehensive victory provided a positive afternoon for McInnes, whose attacking players delivered the goals needed to secure all three points.

For Chukwuani, the late contribution was especially significant given his current position in the squad. Coming off the bench to score allowed him to make a clear impact despite limited time on the pitch.

The midfielder will now aim to build on that performance and turn his latest contribution into more regular involvement as Rangers continue their campaign.

While speculation over his future could persist ahead of the January transfer window, his goal against St Johnstone has given him an opportunity to strengthen his position and demonstrate his value to McInnes.