Ibrox View: Latest Rangers update from Gerrard will surely be massive boost v Braga
Rangers Opinion
Sunday was a real eye-opener for Rangers in several ways.
An underwhelming result against a St. Johnstone side who were very much there for the taking quickly dispelled any of the hope that had been built up by last week’s stunning comeback against SC Braga, and provided a sobering reminder of just how bad things have been at Ibrox since the winter break.
Not everything was doom and gloom though. Florian Kamberi’s second half cameo bordered on the revelatory, and the 24-year-old has more than earned himself a starting spot in the return leg against the Portuguese side.
His introduction came at the expense of deputy left-back Andy Halliday, who has been filling in for the injured Borna Barisic of late.
The Croatian was available for the first leg against Braga, but missed out on Sunday.
Thankfully, however, Gerrard has confirmed that he will be available in time to feature on Wednesday night.
And that can only be a good thing, because it’s almost impossible to imagine Barisic getting taken off halfway through a match that the Gers were losing.
He is such a vital part of this team, and compared to Halliday, who is no slouch by any means, he is indispensable.
With his average of 5.57 successful crosses and 3.49 successful dribbles per game, as per Wyscout, he is a crucial attacking force, and the balance that having him and James Tavernier bombing on down each flank cannot be understated.
Do not underestimate how much of a bonus it will be for the Gers to have Barisic fit and firing tomorrow night.
In other Rangers news, Report – BBC reach decision over Michael Stewart punishment following Gers outburst.