There was a triple injury boost for Rangers on Friday afternoon, after Steven Gerrard delivered multiple positive updates on players, as quoted by Rangers FC Twitter.
One senior player could be fit for Sunday’s trip to Ross County, while two other first-teamers have stepped up their recoveries by returning to training.
“James Tavernier has had some treatment and is a doubt for the weekend, not ruled out for now,” he said.
“Helander is back in full training today as is Polster.”
There’s little doubt that from Gerrard’s point of view, having Tavernier available after his knock against Accies, would be seen as a positive.
The 28-year-old has received major criticism from fans in recent weeks, particularly after the defeat at Hearts, where his defensive lapse played a part in the goal that sent the club out of the Scottish Cup.
His programme notes ahead of Wednesday’s defeat to Hamilton were also badly received, with many questioning his suitability as captain.
However, with Jon Flanagan unimpressive in recent times and Matt Polster not yet fully fit, 18-year-old Nathan Patterson – who is yet to make his Premiership debut – is the only other current viable right-back option.
Away from the controversial Tavernier, the news that Polster and Helander have returned to training is undoubtedly positive news.
Polster had been nursing a hamstring injury and should soon be fit enough to provide genuine competition for places at right-back.
Helander’s return is the biggest boost, though. The big Swede hasn’t played since sustaining a foot injury during the League Cup final in early December.
Since then, all three other senior centre-backs – Connor Goldson, Nikola Katic and George Edmundson – have made high profile mistakes.
A playing return is now finally near for the ex-Bologna man, though, who should bring some experience and composure to a confidence-shy defence.
