Woods sees a place in big league for McGregor
Ex Goalkeeper Chris Woods believes that Allan McGregor has what it takes to prove himself in thePremier League.
The former Rangers keeper knows only too well the feeling of lifting silverware at Ibrox, reckons Greegs would find it hard to turn his back on Walter Smith’s side if the big boys came calling.
Woods has been highly impressed with the shot-stopper’s displays this season as Smith’s side continue to edge closer to a domestic Treble.
He made some vital stops at Rugby Park on Tuesday night, the pick of the bunch a point-blank save from Mehdi Taouil in the first-half, as Rangers increased their lead over Old Firm rivals Celtic thanks to a 2-0 win over Kilmarnock.
Those displays have been credited, along with a rock solid defence, as a key factor behind the Light Blue’s success so far this season.
Woods, now the goalkeeping coach at Everton, certainly likes what he has seen of the Gers No.1.
He said: “I watch Rangers games on TV when I can, and you always see bits and pieces of matches anyway.
“And what I can say is I’ve been impressed with Allan’s performances. He has everything you would really look for in a goalkeeper.
“And when you have someone of his quality playing at the top of their game, then it is a major bonus for any team.
“One of the great things about Allan is he has that ability to pull off big, big saves in matches where he maybe only has one thing to do.
“So that proves his concentration levels are extremely high.
“I can recall my own playing days at Rangers and you’d maybe only be required to make one or two saves during certain matches.
“It can be difficult when you are going long spells without anything to do.
“You have to remain focused and he certainly manages to do just that.
“He is also good at organised his defence and communicating with his team-mates, is sharp in and around the six yard box and he isn’t afraid to come for crosses.
“So he certainly has a lot going for him and I certainly don’t see any reason why he couldn’t play in England or anywhere else for that matter.
“He has played in the Champions League with Rangers so you don’t get any higher a level than that.”
The Englishman, though, can say from first-hand experience that it would take a lot for any player to leave the gates of Ibrox behind.
He said: “Rangers are a massive club and have an opportunity of winning silverware every season.
“And, providing they win the league championship, there is also the possibility of playing in the Champions League.
“The fans are also unbelievable. For some players, they don’t want to give up on that so it is a big decision for anyone to decide to leave.”
Aside from his considerable all-round abilities, Woods also believes that having Neil Alexander as back-up might be a factor in keeping McGregor at the top of his game.
He added: “Some players don’t cope very well with having competition for a jersey and others thrive on it.
“Competition can be good if it brings out the best in players and maybe that is the case with Allan.
“Neil Alexander is an experienced goalkeeper who has also performed well when he has been called upon.
“For a manager, that is a great comfort and I’m sure Walter Smith is delighted to have the two guys to call upon.”
McGregor’s return to the Scotland set-up was delayed after new manager Craig Levein decided to leave him out of his squad after an incident in his private life.
But he is expected to return to the squad for the next match against Sweden and Woods feels that is good news for Scotland.
He said: “You want all your best players available for selection and Allan is obviously one of the best goalkeepers available to Scotland.
“Every player wants to play at the highest level possible and I’m sure Allan would love to represent his country in the future.
“If he keeps performing as well as he is, then I don’t see any reason why he can’t.”
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