Exclusive: Alex McLeish claims Rangers ‘missing ingredient’ set to return v Motherwell
We’re delighted to welcome former Rangers manager Alex McLeish as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Alex McLeish has labelled Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack the “missing ingredient” at Ibrox as he prepares to return from injury.
Steven Gerrard confirmed in his press conference this week that the enforcer has returned to training after missing numerous weeks.
Jack is said to be in contention for the upcoming clash against Motherwell tomorrow, but will likely start from the bench at Fir Park.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, McLeish said, “I think the midfield have to look after Tavernier and Barisic when they go forward a little bit better.
“That’s where teams are trying to exploit them when they are so high up the pitch, but that’s where Rangers want to play.
“When they’re so high up the pitch, there is a gap in there. I feel the midfielders could learn a little bit more about the defensive aspect.
“That’s the type of job that Jack does when he’s in the team, so that was the missing ingredient that could have perhaps caused a hiccup.”
Jack has been missing since the 4-0 win over Aberdeen in November, with the Bears already beating the Dons again last weekend.
The 28-year-old is the main defensive midfield option at Ibrox, and his injury has led to Steven Davis playing more games than he would usually expect this season.
McLeish admitted that the Gers have been left exposed by his absence in the past two months, and his return could make the already-solid defence impenetrable.
Jack is back, and hopefully, sooner rather than later Scott Arfield and Kemar Roofe can join him and make it a full-strength squad for the title run-in.
In other Rangers news, Tam McManus predicts result of upcoming clash v Motherwell