Rangers fans have raved about Joe Aribo on social media, following the 23-year-old’s performance in the Scottish Cup clash against Stranraer.
Rangers made it through to the Fifth Round with a 2-0 win at Ibrox on Friday evening, courtesy of goals from Scott Arfield and Jermain Defoe.
Steven Gerrard made seven changes to the side that had defeated Celtic at Parkhead just before the winter break, and the performance wasn’t pretty, but ultimately the players got the job done.
Bears weren’t impressed by some fringe players given an opportunity on the night, like Jordan Jones, but there were one or two positive individual displays with Nathan Patterson starring on his competitive debut and Aribo continuing his fine pre-winter break form.
The 23-year-old had a mixed first few months of the season, but excelled in the attacking right slot in December, and looks increasingly comfortable in the Light Blue.
Earlier in the season, he often looked unwilling to commit to challenges and perhaps was uncertain about the specifics of his role.
Recently, though, he’s carved out a niche and although there was to be no goal or assist this time around, his general tidiness and grace in possession impressed many onlookers.
The assertion is that he’s developed significantly in his short time with the club and he could soon become a top player.
Here’s a selection of reactions from Twitter:
Our number 17 he is joe aribo 🕺
— ~ (@nik1872) January 17, 2020
IMO joe Aribo acted like a 10 year pro tonight. A captain. He is really growing into the role of a ranger. Makes your heart swell up. 😍 @J_Aribo19
— Paul Hamilton (@PaulHam55102695) January 17, 2020
Candeias for me certainly was good enough but first sign of a challenge for his place and he wanted out. Aribo just looks so settled out right it was something I never expected to work but definitely does. Ojo aint great but every now and then pops up with a stunning finish.
— Rangers Zone (@Rangers_Zone) January 17, 2020
Joe Aribo is so, so good.
— BIG BUFF FAN (@CemetryGates89) January 17, 2020
Lovely touch, quick feet and a good football brain. I’d argue he is the player of the season!
— Ronnie Johnston (@rj1872) January 17, 2020
