Rangers closed the summer transfer window knowing that Philippe Clement was still going to be juggling a few issues in terms of personnel.
Four months later and the manager is still putting square pegs into round holes due to problems with his squad in terms of both balance and injuries.
The latest injury to Neraysho Kasanwirjo is one that affects depth more than the Rangers starting XI, however, there are a few options available in terms of how to deal with the problem.
What options do Rangers have to replace Neraysho Kasanwirjo?
For once, how Nils Koppen structured the deal to sign Kasanwirjo from Feyenoord benefits the Ibrox outfit.
It is a loan with an option to buy and, if a surgeon appointment confirms that the knee injury is season ending, it would be a surprise to see the Netherlands Under-21 international stay and do his rehabilitation at Auchenhowie.
Rangers could sign a replacement in January, if Clement decides that James Tavernier and Dujon Sterling aren’t enough in terms of options to cover right back.
In terms of domestic bargains, Chris Cadden and Nicky Devlin are exactly the type of signing that Walter Smith used to make – solid, experienced SPFL regulars who you know what you are getting from them.
They aren’t any better than Tavernier or Sterling though so, despite being available to discuss pre-contract moves in January, aren’t worth the money.
One player who is, is Bright Osayi-Samuel, linked on several occasions, the Fenerbahce utility man hasn’t seen quite as much game time under Jose Mourinho and could be on the move.
Having missed out on a pre-contract deal before, Rangers might consider another go at the 25-year old right-sided speedster capable of playing at right back or on the right wing.
What Rangers might also consider is a short-term loan, a player dying for minutes and who knows what it takes to be a success in Scotland is Nathan Patterson.
Never really fancied by Sean Dyche, the academy product is fit and building up game time, a rotation role at Rangers could be exactly what he needs.
A loan to buy transfer for Patterson would be a popular deal, if the Scotland international can prove that he is over his injury issues.
