Rangers star Joe Aribo has explained his dip in form post-Christmas following his recent poor performances.
The Nigerian international was speaking to the media ahead of the crucial Scottish Premiership clash against Aberdeen on Saturday, as maximum points are the minimum requirement.
“For me personally, I wanted to get more numbers in terms of goals and assists,” said Aribo [Rangers].
“I think for myself I’ve not been at my best compared to before I left for international duty.
“In football, you have these dips in form throughout a season. Hopefully, I can move past that and come tomorrow to produce a strong performance and move forward from there.”
Joe Aribo vows to rediscover early season form ahead of Rangers tie against Aberdeen
Aribo was absolutely magnificent for Rangers up until the winter break, scoring six goals and providing a further four assists as the Gers were racing ahead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.
Ever since he has returned from the Africa Cup of Nations tournament with Nigeria, his form has been poor.
Of course, performing at a major international tournament isn’t exactly going to help with regard to rest and recuperation during the break. Add to the fact the psychological blow of being eliminated at an early stage and this could perhaps explain his post Xmas woes.
If Rangers want to win the league title, then we need Aribo to rediscover his early-season form as he was arguably the Ibrox side’s best player.
In truth, only really Alfredo Morelos has been a stand-out since the winter break, leading the line and scoring some important goals as we have struggled domestically.
The tie against Aberdeen represents a chance for the team to get back to their best, and with further key ties approaching, an opportunity for a few players to send a message to Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Speaking of Aribo, the midfielder has been called up by Nigeria for the World Cup playoff against Ghana alongside Leon Balogun and Calvin Bassey.
