Jordan Jones played a crucial role for Rangers in the Europa League qualifiers and helped them in securing a place in the main draws. The winger who joined on a free transfer in the summer went on to miss three months of action after he injured himself in the first Old Firm derby of the season. Jones went in for a challenge against Moritz Bauer, and he came off worse.
With the signing of Ryan Kent, Jones was likely to find it hard to get game time, and a long term absence also didn’t help his cause. With the January transfer window now beginning, Jones is attracting plenty of interest (Gazette Live) from the English Championship clubs. Middlesbrough, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers are seemingly interested in signing him this month.
Gerrard talks about transfer rumours
However, Gerrard has claimed that there is no concrete offer on the table yet for Jones. The English manager spoke about Jones’ transfer speculations and said, ‘’ We’ve had nothing on the table, but he’s one of six to eight players where there is a lot of noise around them. He’s a good player — but he’s had a frustrating time.”
“He started his Rangers’ career really strong. It looked like he was going to contribute really heavily — then he was missing for 12 weeks. Just before the break, we were waiting for the real Jordan to stand up but he probably just ran out of time. He looks like he’s come back with the bit between his teeth, and that’s what I want to see.”
“I want to see him trying to force his way into the 11, and he did himself no harm in Dubai. I thought his performance was really good.”
Gerrard seems happy with the comeback which the winger has made so far. However, his real test would be when he gets his chance in a competitive fixture. As for a move this month, it seems unlikely that Gerrard would sanction one until Jones asks to leave (our opinion).
Why will Jones be needed at Ibrox?
Rangers have also made it through into the next round of the Europa League, and they will undoubtedly need the quality of Jones in some of the games. Moreover, he can be useful as an impact substitute as Jones could trouble tiring defenders with his pace, directness and energy.
The arrival of the winger to full fitness will also keep Ryan Kent honest as he would be aware that few bad performances might mean that Jones could nick his place. Hopefully, the winger will get back to his best and contribute in some way or the other in what is going to be a crucial second phase of the season for the Gers.
