Gio van Bronckhorst's Rangers 'masterstroke' saluted as gut instinct swings Dundee grind

Giovanni van Bronckhorst often left fans frustrated at his lack of substitutions during games.

But the Rangers gaffer’s changes are now having a huge impact as he shows his managerial class.

With his team toiling on Tayside as they trailed Dundee 1-0 on Sunday, the Dutchman introduced Fashion Sakala and Joe Aribo.

And his instruction to send Connor Goldson up late on paid off big style as the defender grabbed the winner after Aaron Ramsey, moved into a central role where he was more effective, had equalised.

Former Dundee boss Jim Duffy described it as a “tactical masterclass” while working at the game for BBC Scotland.

It comes after Van Bronckhorst also switched things at half-time against Borussia Dortmund, hooking Borna Barisic and switching to five at the back.

But there was a time when a lack of subs was a major concern for a section of the Gers support.

And former Light Blues striker Andy Little told Sky Sports: “There was a wee bit of disappointment from the fans with some substitutions or lack of substitutions.

“But we seen against Aberdeen where Kemar Roofe came on and got the winner that he’s certainly not been shy of making substitutions early in games recently.

“And he really threw caution to the wind and it paid off (against Dundee). An 86th minute winner from centre half Connor Goldson who, credit to the manager, had just put him up front to try and get that winning goal.

“Dundee started the brighter but they just tired and a couple of really attack-minded substitutions at half time from manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst - Joe Aribo and Fashion Sakala came on - helped them get the equaliser and it was brilliant to see Aaron Ramsey get 84 minutes under his belt.

“And it was a masterstroke of a decision