Ryan Jack’s return from injury is certainly a plus-point, and he may see Scott Arfield’s injury as an opportunity.
Canada captain Arfield injured himself in training whilst on international duty. Steven Gerrard and the Rangers support are desperately awaiting the results of a scan he had on Monday. The injury could see him miss out for several weeks given the fact that it’s a hamstring knock.
Jack made his first appearance back from being sidelined in a cameo role against Hearts. Replacing Ovie Ejaria after 66 minutes, the former Aberdeen general got a good solid 25 minutes under his belt.
Despite that, however, you do struggle to see where Jack can fit into the side in the long-term. The injury to Arfield could open up a door for several first-team hopefuls.
Much-loved squad member
Jack is a much-loved member of the Rangers squad. His full-blooded commitment and aggressiveness on the pitch has won the hearts of the Gers support. But with Lassana Coulibaly, Ovie Ejaria, and Arfield looking undroppable, you had to wonder where his chances to get back into the side would come.
With Arfield’s injury, however, he has to fancy his chances of featuring on Sunday at Hamilton. Ejaria is the kind of player that can be pushed forward into the attacking role that Arfield leaves behind. Behind him, Coulibaly and Jack seem like a formidable partnership for many opposition sides.
The problem with a Coulibaly-Jack partnership is the lack of attacking threat. But with Ejaria, Ryan Kent, and Daniel Candeias providing the creative spark, both Coulibaly and Jack should just be concerned with winning the midfield battle.
When Arfield returns to full-fitness, it’s important every starting midfielder keeps his performance level sky high. The Canada star is going to be given his place back in the side the moment anyone drops their performance level.
For Sunday, however, Gerrard could do with placing his faith back in Jack. Andy Halliday, Graham Dorrans, and Ross McCrorie are all in reserve if necessary. Jack, however, is likely to be the standout for the Gers manager.
It’s going to be a game on Sunday where the battle needs won. Jack is the kind of player who can make sure that happens.
