When it comes to international football, many Rangers fans simply want their top players to return to Ibrox without injury.
The Ibrox side have enough injury problems at the moment without having to contend with any more picked up whilst playing in the UEFA Nations League and even further afield.
But as one Rangers star misses his country’s latest international clash completely, naturally fears are rising that the club have another injury problem in their midst.
Ross McCausland misses Northern Ireland stalemate
Ross McCausland continues to develop at both club level with Rangers and at international level with Northern Ireland.
The talented 21-year-old winger has made a positive contribution so far this season and was once again selected for Michael O’Neill’s Northern Ireland squad.
But as the Ulstermen played out a 0-0 draw with Belarus in the UEFA Nations League, Gers fans would’ve noticed the absence of McCausland from the match day squad.
Speaking ahead of the clash in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary, Michael O’Neill explained that McCausland was set to miss the match due to an unspecified injury niggle.
But the problem is not expected to keep Ross McCausland out for the long-term with O’Neill ‘confident’ the winger will return for next week’s clash against Bulgaria.
As explained on the Irish FA’s website:
“Rangers winger Ross McCausland has an injury niggle and will likely sit out the game in Hungary, although the Northern Ireland boss is confident he will be available for next week’s home game against Bulgaria.”
Rangers winger has ‘lot to offer’ Northern Ireland
Rangers fans might’ve been hoping that Ross McCausland would have opportunities with Northern Ireland during this international break.
The 21-year-old forward is yet to start for the Ulstermen but has already made four appearances from the bench for Michael O’Neill’s side.
Speaking earlier in the international break, Michael O’Neill waxed lyrical about Ross McCausland and insists the winger has ‘a lot to offer’ as he continues to develop.
“I think Ross is a player who impacts the game and has the capability to score as well,” O’Neill said.
“His minutes have predominantly come off the bench for Rangers this season. I’m sure he would wish he was starting more games but there is competition for places there.
“I think Ross has a lot to offer. He is still a young player and has had opportunities for us and when he came on against Luxembourg he was unlucky not to score and he had a good impact in Bulgaria as well.
“On a difficult pitch he showed real good moments on the ball. It’s just continued development for Ross at his club and when he comes away from us.”
Ross McCausland has made 11 appearances for Rangers this season, scoring two goals including a crucial second in the 2-0 Europa League win away to Malmo.
