Ryan Kent’s first appearance since returning from injury against Dundee had everyone excited beforehand. Unfortunately, Steven Gerrard has confirmed he could also be set for another spell out.
The on-loan Liverpool winger played 45 minutes of the 1-1 draw against Dundee at Dens Park this afternoon. Despite hardly being in the game, however, it was a surprise to many when he was taken off for Glenn Middleton at half-time.
Middleton put on a fine showing himself as he constantly looked for the ball and put dangerous crosses into the area. To many it seemed like a tactical sub and one that seemed to work.
Speaking to Rangers TV, however, Gerrard refuted that idea, and instead stated that Kent is once again feeling a knock.
“He’s got an issue I think – we’ll have to check it out.
“We were hoping it’s just precautionary, but he felt some discomfort so we had to take him off.”
A massive blow ahead of crucial fixtures
There’s been no form of update on this, simply that it was precautionary and that it needs assessed. It doesn’t feel too optimistic, however, with Kent only just back from a six-week hamstring knock.
It’s also worth stating that the left-winger didn’t look 100% fit on the day. He failed to make any of his trademark driving runs down the left, and was often caught out when in possession.
Only when he was replaced by Middleton did Rangers start getting some productivity down the left-side. Middleton did himself no harm ahead of Thursday night’s match in Vienna.
Fans, however, are sure to excuse Kent for today’s rather slow display from him. He’ll get better the more fitness sessions and matches he gets under his belt. The immediate concern, however, will be whether he’s fit or not.
Let’s cut to the chase – fans want him fit and firing ahead of the Old Firm clash at the end of the year. Middleton is a decent replacement, but at his best there’s no better winger in the squad than Kent.
It’ll be interesting to see how this progresses ahead of Thursday night. Let us know whether you would rest or risk him against Rapid Vienna in that crucial Europa League match.
