Rangers might have lost to Celtic in the derby, but they have matched their arch-rivals so far after securing a place in the League Cup semi-finals and recording wins in other Premiership games as well. Steven Gerrard once again decided to bolster his squad massively as he brought in plenty of reinforcements this summer. However, one player took the cake in terms of the most eye-catching signing, and that was Ryan Kent.
The English winger was signed on the final day of the transfer window when all hopes seemed lost of a permanent or a loan move. However, Rangers were extremely naive to put him into action straight away, and the winger suffered a hamstring injury in his first game this season.
McAllister on Kent and Jones’ injury
Assistant manager Gary McAllister meanwhile gave an update on Kent’s situation and said (Rangers Twitter), ”Brandon Barker has an issue with his toe, it’s great to see Kent and Jones starting to move again. They won’t be rushed, but they are improving.”
Along with Kent, Jordan Jones also suffered an injury while playing against Celtic. Rangers have coped well without their two crucial wingers so far, and they have continued to keep the pressure on the Hoops. The Gers even registered a win over Feyenoord in the Europa League, so that showcases why squad depth is essential.
Once Kent becomes fit, we would assume he would get into the lineup. However, McAllister indicated that he wouldn’t be rushed. Maybe the club management has now learned their lesson and has decided to ease him back to full fitness.
As for Jones, he might need to be patient to get more game time as Kent is ahead of him in the Ibrox pecking order. Both players prefer to play on the left flank and Kent is likely going to be the first option, though Jones can easily switch to the right side. But as we have seen, Gerrard has preferred to play Scott Arfield in that role who often drifts inside into the central areas instead of hugging the byline.
What now for Gerrard?
Gerrard will hope that he can get his squad to full fitness soon, but it seems like Kent is unlikely to play in the upcoming matches against Aberdeen and Young Boys respectively. If Rangers would have been patient with him in the beginning, then he could have been up to pace by now for these big games. However, the good news is that the winger has made some progress and is moving well right now.
