Rangers saw only too well what happens when Connor Goldson spends an extended period of time out of action.
A Champions League campaign turned into a nightmare, the gap at the top of the league became insurmountable and cheap goals were given away on a regular basis.
The start of the competitive action is just a couple of weeks away but it is good news for Rangers as Connor Goldson sets his sights on Kilmarnock on the opening day.
The Gers vice-captain has been spotted in training, not quite at full steam yet but he has his boots on and looks in decent nick.
Seen on Rangers TV’s latest training video, the 6ft 3inch colossus was seen back on the grass and will be itching to join his teammates.
In his absence, John Souttar and Ben Davies have been the first choice pairing with Leon Balogun now in as a back up.
Rangers have missed Connor Goldson’s voice on and off the pitch
Rangers captain might be James Tavernier but, when fans weren’t allowed in grounds, all you could here was Connor Goldson’s voice.
It isn’t just Rangers that would benefit as a team because Connor Goldson being fit means that Souttar doesn’t have to be played every game.
The Scotland international has been impressive in pre-season but there is a realism over how much football he will be expected to play.
When Goldson is fit though, Michael Beale will have a tough time deciding who to pick alongside him.
What we might see is the Light Blue’s number six being rested from time to time, even if he wants to play every game.
Two serious injuries and the fact he is now into his 30s means that he maybe isn’t as robust as he used to be.
It’ll take a brave man to tell him he’s sitting the odd game out though, but that’s what Beale needs to be.
