Borna Barisic to be assessed ahead of Rangers clash v Dundee United
Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has admitted that there are doubts over whether Borna Barisic will be available to face Dundee United.
The Bears host the Tangerines tomorrow (18 December), aiming to make it six wins from six in the league under van Bronckhorst.
Barisic felt unwell in the 2-0 win over St. Johnstone on Wednesday (15 December) and was forced to come off with 10 minutes to go.
In his press conference today (17 December), van Bronckhorst suggested that the Croatian will be assessed ahead of the clash against Dundee United.
“He was here today,” the manager said. “He was better than he was during the game. He’s ok. We still have some doubts, but will check them tomorrow and then make decisions with which players to start.”
Fingers crossed
Rangers will hope that Barisic is able to start against Dundee United as he is having a fantastic season so far.
Previously described as “outstanding” by Steven Gerrard, the Croatian left-back has become an integral part of the team over the last couple of years.
Since van Bronckhorst has come in, Barisic has been part of the defence that has kept five clean sheets in seven matches.
The 29-year-old got five goals and 14 assists in all competitions as the Bears won the Scottish Premiership title last season, proving his value going forward as well as in defence.
If he is not available to face the Tangerines, Nathan Patterson could be handed a first league start under van Bronckhorst, as he was the player who replaced Barisic on Wednesday night.
Alternatively, Calvin Bassey could move across to his natural position from centre-back, allowing Jack Simpson to start in the middle of defence.
In other Rangers news, a Scottish international has joked about Steven Gerrard’s exit from Ibrox.