Rangers fans have reacted with concern after Joe Aribo was ruled out of action for an extended period with an Old Firm clash against Celtic on the horizon.
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder missed the Gers’ last three fixtures before the international break due to an ankle strain but it had previously been hoped that he’d be fit in time to face Dundee United at Ibrox on Saturday.
He has since suffered a setback, though, and Steven Gerrard confirmed on Friday morning that he will be out for a further four to six weeks.
“It is a big blow with Joe (Aribo) as he is a player we rate highly,” continued Gerrard, as quoted by RangersFC Twitter. “It is actually good news as it could have required surgery but he doesn’t and we hope he can be back in four weeks.
“It will be a blow, however, as he is a major talent.”
It’s a tough break for the Gers boss and his player, given the form that Aribo showed in pre-season and in the opening matches of the Premiership campaign.
After a promising but inconsistent first season in Glasgow, the Nigeria international looked to be really hitting his straps and embracing the pressure involved with being a key cog in the Rangers team.
Aribo is now certain to miss the upcoming fixtures against Dundee United, Lincoln Red Imps, Hibernian, Motherwell and Ross County and crucially, he is doubtful for the first Old Firm of the season.
The Gers travel to Parkhead on 17 October, which is five weeks away tomorrow.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Rangers fans have reacted with disappointment and concern following the update on Aribo.
Here’s a selection of responses from Twitter:
https://twitter.com/DanielMinty_/status/1304339422515728384
