Lee Wallace’s injury problems at Ibrox have been a constant thorn for him, but Steven Gerrard has explained his situation.
The issue was brought up at the club’s AGM this morning at the Clyde Auditorium in Glasgow. Around 500 shareholders have attended the event, with many key issues being brought up.
One of the more intriguing ones, however, was the situation between Rangers and Wallace. The former captain hasn’t been seen around the first-team squad since a late appearance in the 3-3 draw with Motherwell back in September.
Gerrard opened up on his relationship with Wallace, and provided an update to supporters on what his current standing at the club is.
“Lee Wallace was out injured when I came in and had missed 12 months before then. I pay tribute to how Lee has gone about his business when he has been injured.
“To be candid, as long as he’s here he remains part of my plans and he trains with us but I believe we have better options in that position at the moment.
“My relationship with Lee is fine.”
Frozen out of the squad
Gerrard was responding to the suggestion that Rangers have treated Wallace badly. It’s important to remember, however, that he’s been plagued by injuries for a long time now.
The Rangers manager is also spot on when he says they have better options than Wallace down the left. Borna Barisic is returning from injury soon and is a huge upgrade on the former Hearts man. Andy Halliday has also shown terrific composure and fits into Gerrard’s system nicely.
The only left-back you have to question is Jon Flanagan. He’s looked far from impressive since arriving in the summer. Wallace would perhaps have plenty of reason to feel he should be playing ahead of him. Regardless, Gerrard doesn’t fancy him.
What we can take away from this is the fact that Wallace’s days at Ibrox are numbered. Gerrard did say he was “part of his plans”, but it came across as if he’s only interested in keeping him fit as opposed to finding a route into the team for him.
At the very least, supporters now have clarity on the issue.
