Following on from Jon Flanagan, we take a look at Rangers’ premier left-back option, Borna Barisic.
The Croatian arrived from Osijek for £2.45 million in August, and looked at home straight away.
At his best, he marauds down the left flank and whips devilish crosses into the area.
In those first couple of weeks in particular, his delivery was excellent.
However, then came the injuries.
A combination of calf and knee problems ensured he didn’t feature at all throughout October or November. With Lee Wallace ostracised, Jon Flanagan and Andy Halliday deputised.
As a result, Rangers lost a lot of attacking threat down the left.
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His return as a substitute in the 1-1 draw with Dundee was exciting for the supporters. In the following fixtures, he worked his way up to full speed, particularly impressing away at Hibs.
Yet, misfortune struck once again. This time, a hamstring problem sustained against St Johnstone, at McDiarmid Park. He was withdrawn in the first half and missed the last two matches before the winter break.
Overall, he has mustered just 13 appearances, less than a third of those racked up by right-back James Tavernier.
There’s no doubt about it, Barisic looks an excellent player. However, he’s only an asset to Rangers if he can stay fit.
Gers fans will hope the best is yet to come from the 26-year-old. Especially with the potential arrival of Jermain Defoe, if delivery from wide areas is good, goals will come.
Barisic is a crucial part of the quest for title number 55 in 2019.