Rangers defender John Souttar is spotted back in Ibrox training after injury as Michael Beale claims a return beckons for the defender.
The 26-year-old Scotland international hasn’t been seen since the opening day Scottish Premiership win over Livingston and has had a career almost defined by major injury problems.
But there is clearly major optimism surrounding the training ground return with Rangers now hoping the worst is behind John Souttar going forward.
Signed on a pre-contract from Hearts in the summer, Souttar’s injury is symbolic of a poor window and the poor management of the squad, with a lack of options showing up domestically and in Europe.
Souttar was snapped in training by official club media ahead of Rangers’ League Cup semi-final with Aberdeen.
View the full training gallery HERE.
Michael Beale talks John Souttar returning to training
Whilst John Souttar was spotted in training ahead of the Dons clash, the game will come too soon for the defender.
But whilst it’s good to see Souttar back with his teammates there is a little confusion surrounding the last Michael Beale update.
Whilst the Rangers manager has confirmed a return is nearing against St Johnstone, it isn’t clear if it will be for the Scottish Cup clash in Perth on the 22nd or the Premiership clash in Glasgow a week later.
“Souttar trained all week and is ahead of schedule, this week is too soon and expect him around the squad for St Johnstone which is good news, said Michael Beale [Rangers].
Alongside this, the Rangers manager also provided a comprehensive update on the likes of Antonio Colak, Kemar Roofe, Ianis Hagi, James Sands, Tom Lawrence and Ridvan Yilmaz.
“Colak had a slight problem and is touch and go for this weekend,” said Beale.
“Roofe is ready to go, he is a really high-quality player.
“Sands has had a bit of a knock and has missed training this week, he will return to training tomorrow.
“He has played out of position a lot this season and would like the opportunity to give him some time in his preferred position.
“Ridvan we hope to see a return in three or four weeks. Tom Lawrence, is working hard with his rehab and we will support him through this.
“Ianis Hagi, all going to plan we hope to have him in the squad for the St Johnstone home match at the end of the month.”
With Michael Beale specifically mentioning the home game later in the month with Ianis Hagi, perhaps this gives an insight into the training progress of John Souttar.
It would suggest the defender could be back in the squad for the Scottish Cup clash but whatever the case it’s just great to see the Scotland star finally in the running for selection.
Meanwhile, ones Rangers star has been handed plenty of pre-Aberdeen ammunition.
