Philippe Clement insists that Rangers can turn a corner with their long-held injury problems.
But the Rangers manager also believes that whilst the club is committed to resolving the long-standing issues at Ibrox, not even the Gers are immune from fitness issues.
With Nicolas Raskin, Danilo and Ridvan Yilmaz all overcoming injuries to come back into the team in recent weeks, Tom Lawrence, Oscar Cortes and Rabbi Matondo wait in the wings.
And now Neryasho Kasanwirjo has taken a crucial step forward in his recovery from a ‘long-term’ problem which has thrown his Ibrox future into doubt.
Neraysho Kasanwirjo injury blow
Neraysho Kasanwirjo, 22, had begun to make a promising impression on Rangers following a summer loan-to-buy switch from Eredivisie outfit Feyenoord.
The versatile Dutch U21 defender looks a tidy yet powerful full-back who possesses the creative abilities necessary to step into the berth at Ibrox.
But during the last international break, tragedy struck when Kasanwirjo was injured with the Dutch U21s in a clash with England, leaving the pitch in tears.
Given Rangers retain an option on Kasa, it’s brought into question whether or not Rangers will sign Kasanwirjo permanently.
Philippe Clement confirmed last week that the injury would be ‘long-term’ although as things stand there has been no clear update on the problem.
“We were dealt a big blow with with Neraysho (Kasanwirjo), what everybody knows probably,” Clement told the press ahead of the clash with Dundee United.
“So, we’re for the moment in contact with Feyenoord about that. He’s going to have an appointment with a surgeon today, so we will have more news probably during the weekend.
“But it’s for sure a longer-term injury, and it’s now seeing what’s the precise problem and talking with Feyenoord where to make the operation, where to make the rehab, so we’re in negotiations with everybody.
”I can confirm (it is a knee problem). But I cannot confirm what is the precise injury, because the surgeon first needs to look at it. Because there are a little bit different opinions, so we need to be precise and correct.”
Rangers defender undergoes surgery
Whilst the conversation around the future of Neraysho Kasanwirjo continues, the Rangers loanee has provided an update on his situation on social media.
The big defender has uploaded a picture to Instagram following surgery on the problem, and thanked everyone sending him messages of support.
With Kasanwirjo having now undergone surgery, it suggests Rangers and Feyenoord have both agreed on the best course of action for the defender’s injury.
The post-op image of the defender in the hospital bed is a hauntingly familiar one for Rangers fans but we all wish the big defender a speedy recovery in the weeks and months ahead.
Kasanwirjo’s Rangers teammates have also taken to social media in a show of support for the defender, sending messages of encouragement to the young Dutch talent.
Nicolas Raskin said ‘all my love bro’ in an emotional message to his Ibrox teammate, whilst Clinton Nsiala, Zak Lovelace and official Rangers Instagram account sent love heart emojis.
