Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack was to return to the Ibrox side in the 5-0 win over Ross County and, as the saying goes, it was like he’d never been away.
Pre-match there was glowing conversation aplenty about the role of the 28-year-old Scotland international in this team and Jack showed an eagerness to show exactly why throughout his 30-minute showing.
Taking the game by the scruff of the neck from the moment he was introduced, Jacko was probably the stand out performer in the second half and also grabbed himself a rare goal.
Well, not if it’s against Ross County.
Jack got a double up in Dingwall last season and was once again on the scoresheet against the Hghland side as he slid home Rangers fourth goal just five minutes after coming on the park in the place of Steven Davis.
Rangers fans have raved about the 30 minute showing on social media in the aftermath of the result and that says something about Jack’s sub appearance considering how impressive Rangers were in the first half.
Out since November – the 4-0 win over Aberdeen at Ibrox to be precise – Steven Gerrard spoke pre-match about how much an “immense boost” it is to have Jack back in the squad [Rangers].
Even if he will need to be carefully managed.
Similarly Joe Aribo claimed the entire squad was “buzzing” to have the likable midfielder back amongst the action ahead of the game [Rangers].
But while his manager and teammate might’ve put into words how valued he is around Ibrox, Jack played it out in real time on the pitch against Ross County.
Precise, industrious and creative, Jack is unique midfielder in the Rangers squad and Gerrard is right; Jack’s presence is a huge boost to Rangers’ chances at home and abroad this season.
Jack’s performance wasn’t the only one which caught the eye today in a performance worthy of all the plaudits, including the one some remain hesitant to label the club.
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