
Glasgow Rangers made it seven wins out of seven in all competitions with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ludogorets at Ibrox on Thursday night in the Europa League.
Mohamed Diomande scored the decisive goal in the first half, firing a powerful left-footed effort that proved too hot for the visiting goalkeeper to handle.
The win continues Rangers’ impressive momentum under Danny Rohl and further highlights the growing cohesion within the squad.
Gassama Catches the Eye at Ibrox
Despite failing to register a goal or an assist, Djeidi Gassama was one of Rangers’ standout performers on the night.
Operating down the left flank, the French forward caused constant problems with his pace and direct dribbling. His performance by the numbers underlined just how effective he was:
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100% dribble success (3/3)
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Seven duels won from nine
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Three shots on target
(Stats via Sofascore)
Gassama’s form is no fluke. He has become a regular starter for Rohl in both the Scottish Premiership and the Europa League, having already played 36 Championship matches under the German coach at Sheffield Wednesday last season.
Rangers Set to Bid for New Defender
Rohl is now looking to repeat that success by targeting another familiar face.
According to The Star, Rangers are among the clubs interested in signing Sheffield Wednesday right-back Yan Valery before the January transfer window closes.
The report claims that both Rangers and Championship side Wrexham are expected to submit bids in the final ten days of the window.
Rangers had previously enquired about Wednesday defender Max Lowe, but Valery has now emerged as their primary defensive target.
Owls reporter Alex Miller has also suggested that Valery shares a “fond” relationship with Rohl from their time working together in Yorkshire — something that could play a key role in the player’s decision.
Why Yan Valery Could Be a “Gassama Repeat”
Rangers should be eager to beat Wrexham to Valery’s signature, largely because he already understands Rohl’s methods and style of play.
While Gassama was originally signed under Russell Martin, his familiarity with Rohl has helped him hit the ground running at Ibrox. Valery could offer the same immediate impact.
That prior relationship reduces risk — Valery knows what will be demanded of him, unlike players arriving without experience of Rohl’s system or the Scottish Premiership.
A True Utility Option for Rangers
Although Valery is primarily a right-back, his versatility makes him an appealing squad option. According to Transfermarkt, the Tunisian international has also played:
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30 matches at centre-back
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37 matches as a right midfielder
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12 matches in defensive or central midfield
That flexibility could make him an invaluable utility player for Rangers, capabl
e of covering multiple roles across defence and midfield.
Championship Stats Show Defensive Quality
Valery’s Championship numbers highlight his defensive reliability this season:
25/26 Championship – Yan Valery (vs Right-Backs)
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Tackles: 38 (Top 23%)
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Duels won: 129 (Top 6%)
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Aerial duels won: 41 (Top 4%)
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Aerial duel success: 54.7% (Top 27%)
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Blocks: 7 (Top 25%)
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Ball recoveries: 107 (Top 16%)
(Stats via FotMob)
These figures underline his strength, consistency, and physical presence.
Attacking Threat From Deep
Valery also offers plenty going forward. Last season, he recorded:
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3 goals
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4 assists
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8 big chances created
across 39 Championship appearances for Sheffield Wednesday (via Sofascore).
His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch explains why he has been trusted in multiple roles throughout his career.
Final Verdict
Yan Valery may not be a marquee signing or a player who scores 15 goals a season, but his versatility, work rate, and familiarity with Danny Rohl’s system could make him a smart and dependable addition.
If Rangers are serious about strengthening their squad depth and maintaining momentum on multiple fronts, Valery could prove to be a quietly excellent piece of business.



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