Cyriel Dessers’ stoppage-time strike to rescue Rangers against Dynamo Kiev felt like not only a pivotal moment in the new season but also a significant milestone in his Ibrox career.

Criticism has poured down on Cyriel Dessers like a monsoon at times. Players with a less resilient mentality might have been overwhelmed by the flood of doubters.

However, what Dessers may lack in ruthlessness, he makes up for with effort, determination, and a never-say-die attitude.

After missing several chances against Hearts on Saturday and having a header brilliantly saved in Poland, Dessers didn’t let his head drop, knowing that another chance would come.

And when it did – with Vaclav Cerny whipping in a superb cross in the 94th minute – Dessers was the quickest to react, turning the ball in at the near post to help Rangers avoid defeat against Dynamo Kiev.

Still, the number nine spot in Philippe Clement’s team remains a topic of discussion, as Dessers continues to miss the target more often than he finds it.

Rangers eye strikers as Bristol City prepare Tommy Conway sale

Speculation linking Rangers with a move for Hearts talisman Lawrence Shankland surfaced again before the Premiership opener at Tynecastle. Shankland, who has just one year left on his contract, is not being rushed out by the Edinburgh club, despite being the division’s Golden Boot winner.

The same cannot be said for Bristol City. Facing the prospect of losing their star striker on a free transfer, the Championship outfit is more urgent in their approach. As confirmed by Robins coach Liam Manning, Rangers-linked Scotland international Tommy Conway will be sold in the final three weeks of the window if their asking price is met.

“I had a lot of chats with Tommy last year about his situation and future,” Manning told BBC Radio Bristol’s ‘Sound of the City’.

“I spoke to him in the off-season, and I thought the club made him a fantastic offer which he decided to decline. Then, it’s a decision.

“I haven’t fallen out with Tommy, but anyone in the first-team changing room, anyone who’s training with us, has to be all-in on the club and our goals.

“If someone’s head is elsewhere, we can’t carry that ultimately.”

The Bristol Post reported in June that Rangers, who were linked back in January, were on red alert after learning that Conway would not be extending his stay at Ashton Gate.

The once-capped speedster is no longer part of Manning’s plans, having not featured with the first-team squad during pre-season.

Philippe Clement may need a Cyriel Dessers alternative

“He’s trained properly but, as I mentioned, he doesn’t see his future at the club,” the former West Ham United youth coach said. “So it’s time for him to move on.

“With Tommy’s potential and value, it doesn’t make sense to let his contract run down and risk losing him for nothing. I told Tommy last season that if he doesn’t sign, we’ll look to move him on because he holds value, and that allows us to invest in the squad.

“Nothing imminent,” Manning added. “There have been some talks between clubs, but it’s not right to discuss them until things are more definitive.

“But there has been some interest.”

If Rangers want to join the race before the start of September, they’ll need to bid more than £5 million. This is the offer made by Bristol City’s Championship rivals Middlesbrough and Hull City.