From Norwich to Rangers
Todd Cantwell is the latest addition to the Rangers squad, having signed from Norwich City on a long-term deal. The 24-year-old midfielder is the first signing of Michael Beale, who took over as Rangers manager after Steven Gerrard left for Aston Villa. Cantwell came through the Norwich academy and played 129 games for the Canaries, scoring 14 goals and providing 12 assists. He also had loan spells at Bournemouth and Fortuna Sittard in the Netherlands. He was part of the Norwich team that won the Championship title in 2018-19 and 2020-21, but also suffered relegation from the Premier League twice. He was out of favour with the new Norwich boss David Wagner, who preferred other options in midfield.
A versatile and creative player
Cantwell is a versatile and creative player who can operate in various positions across the midfield and the attack. He is comfortable on both feet and has a good range of passing and dribbling skills. He can also score goals from distance and set pieces. He is known for his flair and confidence on the ball, as well as his work rate and pressing off the ball. He has been compared to former Rangers star Steven Davis, who also joined the club from Norwich in 2008. Cantwell has also been praised by his former managers and teammates for his attitude and professionalism.
A dream move to Rangers
Cantwell said he was delighted and proud to join Rangers, a massive club with a rich history and a passionate fan base. He said he was looking forward to playing in Europe and winning trophies with the club, something he had not experienced at Norwich. He said he was impressed by the vision and style of play of Beale, who had worked with him briefly at Norwich when he was a youth coach. He said he was eager to learn from him and his staff, as well as his new teammates, who have been dominant in Scottish football in recent years. He said he wanted to show the Rangers fans the player he can be and help the club achieve its goals.
A strong debut against Aberdeen
Cantwell made his Rangers debut on Sunday, February 4, 2024, against Aberdeen at Ibrox. He started on the left wing and played 72 minutes before being replaced by Ryan Kent. He had a strong performance, showing his quality and creativity on the ball. He had two shots on target, one of which hit the post, and created three chances for his teammates. He also won four duels and made two interceptions. He received a standing ovation from the Rangers fans when he left the pitch. Rangers won the game 2-1, thanks to goals from Alfredo Morelos and Joe Aribo. The win kept them level on points with Celtic at the top of the Premiership table.
A bright future ahead
Cantwell has a bright future ahead of him at Rangers, where he will hope to establish himself as a regular starter and a key player. He will also aim to break into the England squad, having represented his country at various youth levels. He has been capped 11 times for the under-21s, scoring three goals. He has not yet been called up by Gareth Southgate for the senior team, but he has not given up on his dream of playing for the Three Lions. He will also look forward to playing in the Europa League, where Rangers have reached the knockout stage. They will face Bayer Leverkusen in the round of 32, with the first leg in Germany on February 15, 2024.
