Rangers lost some ground in the title race as they only managed to draw against Aberdeen at Pittodrie. Celtic continued their winning run as they grabbed a late winner to secure three points against Hamilton. One player who was missed big time against the Dons was Borna Barisic.
The Croatian left-back has become an essential attacking outlet so far after his resurgence this season. His replacement Jon Flanagan hardly offered anything while going forward and Barisic’s sweeping crosses and driving runs were missed.
Good news for Gerrard
His availability in the final is seen as a significant doubt as of now. However, Rangers could be in for a bit of good news as Ibrox sources as cited by the Daily Record suggests that the fullback will be ready to play in the final against Celtic this Sunday.
Reports, as cited to Ibrox sources, said, ”Borna is likely to play. First of all, he is a very brave guy, and he will do everything he can to play, and it is the belief of everyone at Rangers that he will play. He has been getting three or four injections in the last three games, and you can’t do that every three days, or you will make it worse.
”The injury needed rest, so it was better for all concerned that he sat out the game against Aberdeen, but he received some treatment on Thursday and is feeling much better and likely to play against Celtic.”
Rangers will have a great chance to land a psychological blow to Celtic in the Premiership race if they manage to win the Betfred Cup final. It will also give them the self-belief that they can run the Hoops close this season. After only managing a draw against Aberdeen where Rangers blew a two goal lead, it would be imperative for the Gers to bounce back. A loss in the final could really affect them, and we believe that it is more important for Rangers to win the final than for Celtic.
Why is Barisic going to be crucial for the Bears?
Gerrard will need every bit of his squad qualities to challenge the high flying Celtic who are currently on an eleven game-winning run. Barisic has been a standout player so far this season. With Flanagan at left-back, all of Rangers’ attack naturally started to come from the right side against the Dons and Rangers looked quite one dimensional and devoid of ideas.
Barisic gives them a certain edge, and he will be up against Jeremie Frimpong who is vastly inexperienced at the top level. The youngster has looked impressive as an attacking fullback so far, but he hasn’t been tested defensively. Barisic will have a chance to test the Celtic fullback, and the latest news is undoubtedly a great one from Rangers’ point of view.
