Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has never been shy in talking up the abilities of his number 8 at Ibrox as Scotland international Ryan Jack cements himself as an important member of the gaffer’s squad.
But throughout Gerrard’s tenure at the club, Jacko has suffered from niggling injury after niggling injury and this season in particular the talented midfielder has suffered through a lack of game time.
For one of Rangers’ leading players to spend so much time on the sidelines, it shows the depth of the squad but also the room the side has to grow should Jack get over his fitness issues.
Steven Gerrard was discussing the midfielder in a recent press conference and the manager was particularly positive as he praised Jacko and the success of recent surgery on a troublesome knee issue.
That’s even if Gerrard won’t be rushing Jack back from the problem which has seen the Scotland international ruled out of the European Championships.
“Ryan has had successful surgery,” said Gerrard [Rangers].
“We spoke to the surgeon after the operation and he was really happy with how that went.
“He will start his rehab now and hopefully we’ll have him back some time in pre-season.
“Will he be fit for the Champions League qualifiers? I think it’s too early to say that.
“You’re looking at something like a three-month rehab from surgery – and that’s assuming everything goes according to plan.
“It’s too early to put a game or a date target on that.
“If he could be available for the qualifiers that would be fantastic for everyone connected to the club.
“But one thing for sure is we won’t be rushing it.
“It’s the type of surgery where you can’t afford to rush it. You’ve got to let it take its course.
“I know Jacko will be pushing to get back as quick as he can but we’ll be guided by the medical advice.
“The key for me is not to put a time on it and get Ryan Jack in the best possible shape so he can repeat games, because if he does he makes my team and squad a lot stronger, that’s for sure.”
Jack, 29, has made only 14 Scottish Premiership starts this season but fans will be enthused by the news that the midfielder’s issues have been identified ahead of next season.
Should the midfielder be available for the entire campaign he’ll almost be like a new signing in a midfield that has felt the brunt of injuries and suspensions in the latter part of the season.
Jack himself is buzzing ahead of the new campaign and sounded the 56 title drum on social media after his surgery last week.
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