A defeat to Celtic at Ibrox has been a massive setback for Rangers in their bid to reclaim the Premiership title drawing an end to the Hoops’ supremacy. Although it is too early to predict the winner, but the result of such high-profile outings usually shapes up the league standings going forward.
The Bears, meanwhile, have suffered yet another blow as Ryan Jack has been sent back to Auchenhowie from the national camp to nurse his knee injury. The Scotsman missed the tie against Russia, and the Gers’ have ‘decided to go safety first’ as stated by Steve Clarke ahead of their Monday night contest against Belgium.
“Ryan has gone back to Rangers. He had a little bit of swelling on his knee on Friday and was prepared to sit on the bench. But on Saturday there was more swelling and Rangers decided to go safety first.”
Told the Scotland boss (as quoted by Football Scotland) before the Hampden fixture that eventually ended up in a shambolic 4-0 defeat for the hosts.
What Should Be The ‘Plan B’ In Jack’s Absence
While the extent of the injury is still unclear, a swelled knee usually does not take too long to recover. The 27-year-old former Aberdeen skipper is a key figure in the base of Rangers’ midfield three and Steven Gerrard, despite having able alternatives in other areas of the pitch, might have to rely on youngster Greg Docherty in the deep-lying role.
Andy Halliday remains the other possibility who is longing for minutes whereas the gaffer might go for a double pivot allowing Glen Kamara and Joe Aribo to operate more centrally.
Why Rangers Need Him Back ASAP
Jack has been one of the Light Blues’ most persistent and prominent performers since Gerrard’s introduction. He went on to feature 46 times last season in all competitions exhibiting his significance in the manager’s plan. Not only does he marshall the backline under pressure but also works tirelessly to carry the ball forward and create chances in the attacking third.
The Scotland international is effective in a destructive role and has worked on his discipline of late after a difficult 2017-18 campaign. He has already made 11 appearances this term, and the club do not have anyone of his calibre who could replicate a similar show in the middle of the park. The fans, therefore, must be waiting anxiously to have clear visibility of his return date with the season set to resume this weekend following the ongoing international break.
