Jordan Jones is likely to return to the Rangers matchday squad for the Boxing Day clash against Kilmarnock.
In the build-up to Friday night’s game against Hibernian, Steven Gerrard made it clear that Jones was fit again following a knee injury, but that a bout of illness had rendered him a doubt for the Easter Road clash.
He went on to suggest that if Jones didn’t recover in time for that fixture, he would be involved in the next one [RangersTV].
It’s great news for Rangers fans to have Jones back available, considering what he can bring to the side. The 25-year-old Northern Ireland international is extremely pacey and always keen to take on defenders.
Ahead of a trip to Parkhead, he’s a dangerous option off the bench.
Jones’ return could spell trouble for Brandon Barker.
The former Manchester City academy star has struggled to make an impact since signing for Rangers in August.
So far, he’s managed just one goal and no assists in ten appearances, with playing opportunities hard to come by.
The 22-year-old has been a regular on the bench in recent weeks and came on for the final stages against Hibernian. He did force Marciano into a good stop with a left-footed drive, but in general, he’s struggled to impose himself on games, with the Europa League home clash against Porto a particularly disappointing outing.
There’s no need for three wingers on the bench on any given matchday and with Sheyi Ojo likely to be involved, Jones’ return could well see Barker axed.
That would constitute a big blow for the Englishman, who faces the prospect of entering the winter break having been involved in just 400 minutes of action.
