Rangers have been boosted by the return of Steven Davis ahead of a tough run of matches – but could be bracing themselves to lose John Lundstram.
The Northern Irish veteran, 37, is one of the club’s most experienced campaigners but has been largely ignored by manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
There was some confusion surrounding the lack of game time for Steven Davis, with van Bronckhorst claiming this was due to injury but Northern Irish boss Ian Baraclough claiming the midfielder was “out of the picture” at Rangers.
Going on to represent the Ulstermen over the break, it proved that Steven Davis is fit enough to play and suggest that the latter may have had a point.
But Rangers fans got a glimpse of the midfield playmaker as the Gers ran out 4-0 winners over St Mirren, with the addition of Davis to the midfield a calming and influential move.
Steven Davis returns to Rangers side for first time since February
This was Davo’s first minutes for Rangers since playing against Annan in the Scottish Cup in February.
In fact, it was only Steven Davis’ sixth Rangers appearance since Giovanni van Bronckhorst took over.
Showing glimpses of the passing expertise and positional understanding that has made him a Rangers legend, this is something the Dutchman may live to regret this season.
But with tough games on the horizon against Braga and Celtic, perhaps Rangers could do worse than put their faith in the Ulster Xavi.
Especially considering that influential midfielder John Lundstram – himself initially ignored by the Dutch coaching contingent – is out for any notable period of time.
Speaking after the game, Rangers boss van Bronckhorst told the press the decision to sub Lundstram for Davis after only 25 minutes was due to a groin problem.
“Lundstram felt his groin a little bit so we’ll have to assess in the next few days how he is,” said van Bronckhorst [Sky Sports].
“Hopefully he can make it for Thursday.”
If John Lundstram can’t make it, Rangers have a perfectly capable replacement sitting on the bench in Steven Davis.
Meanwhile, another influential Rangers star has been spotted on crutches after being subbed off in the win over St Mirren.
