Rangers defender Nikola Katic has taken to social media to address fans after picking up a cruciate ligament knee injury which will keep him out for the “foreseeable future”.
The big Croat defender had been putting the hours in behind the scenes during the shutdown and would’ve been hoping to stake a claim for a full-time spot in defence this season.
But whilst the injury threatens to rule Katic out for a considerable chunk of this season, the defender is keeping optimistic, saying the setback is “all part of God’s plan”.
Rangers fans rallied behind the big 6ft4 centre-half when news of the injury broke and they aren’t the only ones.
Katic’s agent Ives Cakarun believes that the defender’s mental resilience and physical toughness means he can overcome the injury in six months.
“His cruciate ligament is damaged but Niko is a brave guy and he will be back stronger than he is now,” said Cakarun [Daily Record].
“We think in six months he will be able to play games.”
The big defender has also received the backing of Croatian national team coach Zlatko Dalic, who confirmed he will keep a place in the squad open for Katic’s return.
With Euro 2021 on the horizon, this will come as a huge boost to the centre-back’s spirits and perhaps act as motivation to hit the ground running upon his return.
“I can’t say too much about Niko as I know he is injured and we are waiting to hear how serious it is,” said Dalic [Daily Record].
“But Niko is of great interest to me and I certainly hope he makes a speedy recovery. I hope he is back very soon and I will be keeping in touch with him.
“For sure we will keep a place open in the national team for him.”
Rangers signed Niko Katic for £1.3m from Slaven Bepulo in 2018 and he has gone on to make 59 appearances for the club, scoring six goals and establishing himself as a favourite with the fans.
The Bosnian born Croatian international has a solitary cap for his country, coming on as a substitute in a 2-1 win over Mexico in 2017.
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