Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has been given a welcome boost as Borna Barisic returned to action for the reserves.
Barisic started for the reserves against Kilmarnock as he takes his final step towards full fitness. He went off at half-time, as they thumped Killie 5-0 at the Hummel Training Centre.
It will be a welcome addition to Gerrard’s squad. The Rangers boss will possibly be looking to rotate his squad as they enter their third game in six days. Aberdeen will visit Ibrox on Wednesday, with Rangers needing a victory to have any chance of staying in the Premiership’s top spot.
Barisic shouldn’t replace Andy Halliday
Rangers have missed Barisic for over a month. He has missed key fixtures, including the Europa League clash against Villarreal. He also hasn’t played domestically or internationally since Rangers’ 1-0 defeat at the hands of Livingston.
Based on performances since Barisic’s injury, Andy Halliday should not lose his place in the squad to the Croatian. Barisic will provide great competition at left-back, but his return isn’t needed imminently. He will only provide an opportunity for Gerrard, in the short-term, to rest tired legs.
Rangers have coped without him, and have avoided any real damage in the process. Halliday has been one of the star performers over the past month for Rangers. Jon Flanagan’s shambolic performance against Villarreal, however, proves that Rangers do need Barisic.
It’s not been ideal, but Rangers must have thought they’d suffer more without the defender. It may not be wise to throw the 26-year old into the deep end against Aberdeen. They will come up against a hurting Dons side, who will look to avenge the disappointment of losing the Betfred Cup final at Ibrox.
Niall McGinn is a tricky winger who could be a real handful for Barisic, with the Croatian already lacking match sharpness.
Rangers need Barisic back in the squad, not in the starting XI. He will be a rotation player initially, but will get his Rangers chance at some point. But while Halliday is performing well, he shouldn’t be dropped.
