Rangers defender Filip Helander has not been a regular in the team since his £3.5m arrival from Bologna in the summer, but the Swedish international showed supporters why the club shelled out the cash against Porto.
The 26-year-old was a commanding presence at the back as the Gers drew 1-1 in the Europa League last night. Fans on Twitter have been praising the centre-back for his display as Steven Gerrard’s men secured an important point:
Top notch.
— @drummybear?????? (@drummybear) October 25, 2019
That is why we paid £3.5M for Filip Helander. Immense performance from the big Swede. pic.twitter.com/vaE70LxIbv
— ?? WATP.com ?? (@WATP_com) October 24, 2019
Steal
— David Kennedy (@DavidKe53173656) October 24, 2019
A didn’t really rate him but was outstanding last night
— Angela Swan??? (@alystac06) October 25, 2019
He looked solid tonight ?
Improving all the time, a great investment by the club ?⚪?— Bobby Blue Bayou (@ProfPlum3) October 24, 2019
Bossed it
— Earl Grimly (@EarlGrimly) October 24, 2019
Didn't put a foot wrong all game
— Croatia's Chosen Few (@Thesupergers) October 24, 2019
Outstanding performance from Helander last night.
— Frusciante103 (@frusciante103) October 25, 2019
He played so well?????
— CHLOE??️? (@chlomayyx) October 24, 2019
Filip Helander take a bow.
Unreal performance. ??? pic.twitter.com/jwClooR7Pg— Rossco (@Rossco5088) October 24, 2019
There is fierce competition for places at centre-back and Helander has had to wait for his chance. He has started just seven matches since his move from Italy but it’s no coincidence that three of those have come in the three group games.
The Swede is used to the slower pace of European football, and he looks far more at ease playing in that environment. The next step will be to see whether he can manage to play week in week out in the Scottish Premiership.