Scott Wright: The remarkable rise from decoy to important Rangers first-team star

There was something surreal but also heartwarming about Rangers resting Scott Wright for a Europa League final.

It was part of one of those stories which are common in football. An opportunity which starts with a problem.

In this instance, injuries to Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos required Giovanni van Bronckhorst to find a solution to an attacking issue. Wright, a bit-part player since arriving from Aberdeen in January 2021, was presented with such an opportunity few would have predicted and he took it.

Not only did he start both legs of the Europa League semi-final with RB Leipzig, but he got an assist in the second-leg at Ibrox. His place in the final was fully justified and deserved as part of a front three which included Joe Aribo and Ryan Kent.

It meant he was not included in the squad for the final league game of the season at Hearts, while Aaron Ramsey was. Wright was required to rest up to be ready for Eintracht Frankfurt.

He performed well in the first half before fading after the break in Seville and eventually being replaced.

Then, on Saturday, in the Scottish Cup final against Hearts, when Van Bronckhorst was looking to win the game with the score goalless, he turned to his bench. There was Kemar Roofe, Ramsey, Fashion Sakala, Glen Kamara and Ryan Jack amongst the choices. But the first choice was Wright.

This past week has demonstrated the remarkable rise of the 24-year-old. And, for the first time in his Rangers career, he can be regarded as an important first-team star.

“It’s the sake of constantly trying to believe in yourself when you are out of the team and working hard in training,” he said. “I don’t think there is a reason for you not to try and improve when you are out of the team.

“I had numerous