Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has provided an injury update ahead of his side’s trip to Hearts in the Scottish Premiership, as captured by RangersTV.
The Gers have started the new year understrength with several players out with injury problems and Alfredo Morelos serving a suspension.
The good news is that there are no fresh concerns, with the squad emerging from Wednesday night’s win over St Mirren relatively unscathed.
However, attacker, Greg Stewart is set to miss out again, and while James Tavernier and Filip Helander are on the right track, their respective returns are still some way off.
“There’s no exact date [on Tavernier], but he’s progressing well,” said Gerrard, as captured by RangersTV. “He’s starting to work out on the bike and in the gym, and I’m sure he’s about to break out into a jog at some point so that’s good news.”
“He got a good report from the surgeon and got his stitches taken out, so we’re a lot closer than we were.”
“Greg, again, will miss the weekend, he’s got an outside chance for Ross County.
“Fil is off crutches now, he’s walking about, so his rehab has begun, but that’s going to be a slow burner.”
Verdict
The continued absence of Tavernier and Helander was very much expected, but the fact that Stewart is still sidelined is certainly a blow.
In an ideal world, with Morelos still unavailable through suspension, Stewart would have at least provided some attacking cover on the bench for the Gers, with the versatile operator capable of playing both out wide or in support of the main striker.
His injury ensures Defoe continues to be the only player in the Rangers squad capable of playing up front.
Steven Gerrard will be hoping the starting lineup can get the job done, as of those named on the bench against St Mirren, only Scott Arfield has netted since September.
While you’re here, why not check out our Predicted XI for this weekend’s game.
