Rangers open training session at Ibrox was one that gave a fascinating insight into what fans can expect against Kilmarnock and the return of Connor Goldson is a welcome one.
There is a reason why the Auchenhowie training facility has a screen around it so that watching eyes can’t see what Michael Beale’s plans are.
The manager’s line ups for the open training session though suggest that Rangers vice-captain is ready to go and that Connor Goldson will return at the weekend with the boss happy for all to see.
The 30-year old centre-half hasn’t kicked a ball in pre-season but his position allows for an element of rustiness in terms of fitness.
Rangers will dominate possession against Kilmarnock and Connor Goldson’s biggest role will be collecting the ball off Jack Butland and playing out from the back.
John Souttar was expected to partner Ben Davies, but if Goldson plays it will be who he plays with that will be the one expected to do the hard yards and most of the 1v1 defending.
Will Rangers have Connor Goldson back for Killie?
The open training session wass as clear a hint as any that Rangers will have Connor Goldson back.
Michael Beale tinkered with the line up a couple of times, but on both occasions, he was partnering Souttar with the only change in defence being that Borna Barisic played one game at left back and Ridvan Yilmaz the other.
With Ben Davies still missing from training due to sickness, the Gers gaffer will be hoping that Goldson comes through the more intense session unscathed.
The Rugby Park surface might not be ideal for those returning from injury, however, if he is pain free and coping with the increase in training, there is no reason why it shouldn’t be his first game back.
The biggest reason is that you wouldn’t want him to be playing in a Champions League qualifier without kicking a ball first.
And for that reason alone, if he is fit for Rangers, Connor Goldson should line up, just as he did at Ibrox today, alongside John Souttar against Kilmarnock.
