BRIAN LAUDRUP hopes that Ryan Kent can replicate his form of old when Rangers face off against PSV in the Champions League this week.
The play-off clash is in the balance and Giovanni van Bronckhorst's side could do with Kent's spark to get them over the line and into the group stages.
Laudrup knows what the former Liverpool winger is capable of, but he's been disappointed by his form of late.
He wrote in the Daily Mail: "Ryan Kent produced an outstanding exhibition of his talent on the last occasion Rangers won a European match outside of Ibrox.
"As my old club now head to Eindhoven hoping to make the group stage of the Champions League, they are absolutely crying out for the version of Kent that tormented Borussia Dortmund in February.
"Will we see it? I certainly hope so. Everyone knows how highly I rate Kent's talent, but I've been a little bit worried by what I've witnessed in the early games of this season.
"There seems to be a shortage of confidence and conviction in his play. Some of that might be down to tactical instructions from Giovanni van Bronckhorst, If so, I would love to see Kent given the freedom to truly flourish because Rangers still don't have anyone else quite like him.
"There could be a lot on his shoulders against PSV. In times past, we have looked to Alfredo Morelos to produce something special on European nights. But after the sheer stupidity of his red card against Hibs on Saturday, the striker is no closer to being properly fit.
"That likely puts even more onus on Kent. Yes, Rangers have signed some attack-minded players of promise in Antonio Colak, Tom Lawrence, Malik Tillman and Rabbi Matondo. But Kent is the one who's got it all including a real depth of European experience.
"With those attributes comes expectation. And he needs to start producing the goods again on a consistent basis. I firmly believe that will happen but subtle changes in positioning and mindset might quicken the process and enable him to shine against PSV."
Laudrup also questioned whether Rangers' shape under van Bronckhorst is allowing Kent to play to his strengths.
He continued: "Last season, he only scored three times across all competitions, which wasn't great, but it sat beside an excellent return of 20 assists. His creative power is clear. Right now, though, I just think there's something missing.
"We're hardly ever seeing him take a player on and then have a go himself. He's getting the ball and going inside and passing or going outside and crossing. To me, it's all very unconvincing.
"Sometimes, you need to almost force it. One good dribble, one good strike at goal, one assist, can be all that's needed to get you firing again.
"I also used to leave my position and go across the pitch to find different angles for attack. You need the permission of your coach for that, of course. And it might really help Kent. I feel he's too rooted just now. And also too deep on some occasions when he gets the ball on the left."
"I know what it's like in Glasgow," added Laudrup. "The fact Kent's counterparts at Celtic, particularly Jota, have started the season in sparkling form adds to the pressure he faces. People look at the numbers and make comparisons.
"But the only thing you can do is focus on your own game. You can't waste mental energy thinking about other players on the opposite side of the city. It's about Kent getting back to what he's good at. We've seen it before. And he can certainly do it again. On his day, he is as good as anyone in Scottish football."
