Rangers are set to be handed a monumental post-World Cup boost by the imminent return of Ibrox defensive pair Connor Goldson and Ben Davies.
Incoming manager Michael Beale has confirmed that both these experienced centre-backs are closing in on a first-team return ahead of the second half of the season.
As Rangers hope to chip away at Celtic’s nine point lead in the title race and compete in the hunt for two cups, it’s a major boost to a side who’ve seen a patchwork defence all season long.
Whilst at the moment Rangers could be going into the Scottish Premiership return with teenager Leon King and defensive midfielder James Sands in defence, Connor Goldson and Ben Davies are set to return to training.
That said, Rangers won’t rush either player ahead of the second half of the season.
“Ben and Connor, the plan is in the next 24-48 hours, they return to training, which will be hugely important for the group,” said Beale.
”We have got a fantastic relationship and I know Connor just wants to get out there and play for the team.
“There were times in my previous time I was here that Connor played when other boys might not have. He has never got praise for that, he doesn’t want praise for that, it’s just the sort of boy he is.
“He is ahead of schedule, but I won’t rush him because I want him to be fit for 90 or 100 per cent of the games that he can be fit for between now and the rest of the season.
“It was his first longer-term injury for three or four years, but we are definitely a stronger squad and team, and dressing room, for Connor’s presence.
“So if he is available then great, likewise with Ben, but we certainly won’t rush them.”
Rangers to be boosted by Connor Goldson and Ben Davies return
Connor Goldson – a reported £3.5m signing from Brighton four years ago – and Ben Davies – a £4m summer buy from Liverpool – are the most experienced defenders in the Rangers squad.
That’s a reported £7.5m of Premier League standard talent and at a club with the financial constraints of Rangers if they are out of the side, it’s going to be felt.
The two players can form the foundations of the Ibrox team and the sooner they are back in the first-team ranks the better, as far as plenty are concerned.
Meanwhile, there has also been a positive development regarding the future of another key player.
