Rangers have been boosted by the return of several key Ibrox internationals to Gers training as no fewer than five stars are back with the first-team.
Scotland international Ryan Jack, Jamaican forward Kemar Roofe, returning Swiss striker Cedric Itten, Nigerian centre-back Leon Balogun and Swedish counterpart Filip Helander are all back in first-team training.
Balogun was snapped in a training video uploaded to the club’s social media channels.
That’s five international quality players whom Giovanni van Bronckhorst has had to serve much of his Rangers tenure without so far.
Only Kemar Roofe has been available for the Gers gaffer, the ex-Leeds United forward scoring the winner v Hibs and playing a part in the 1-1 draw with Lyon in France.
Having all five players back in the fold at Ibrox will be a monumental boost to the Dutchman and his coaching staff and their appearance at the club’s training ground was welcomed by supporters.
Rangers boss discusses squad as Ibrox internationals prepare to make return
Speaking ahead of the clash with Aberdeen, Gers boss Gio also provided an update regarding the players’ situations as they work their way back to fitness.
However, the winter break has also come at a cost for Rangers with veteran pair Scott Arfield and Steven Davis both picking up injuries. Joe Aribo also misses out on AFCON duty.
“Maybe it’s better to say who will not be available. Aribo will not be in the squad because of the African Cup of Nations,” said van Bronckhorst [Rangers].
“Helander started training with the team this week so I’m really happy for him but the game will come too early for him.
“Scott Arfield is still not training so he won’t be involved and the same for Steven Davis.
“Kemar and Ryan started training with the team also this week so I’m happy that the injured players are getting back to training with the squad especially with a busy schedule coming up.
“Whether they will be involved tomorrow, we have to see.”
But whilst these players are back in training, manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has ruled out a return for a firm favourite amongst the Ibrox support.
