Gio Van Bronckhorst’s Aribo dilemma ahead of Rangers v Dundee United
Joe Aribo is currently enjoying the best spell of his career for Rangers but could be left out ahead of today’s showdown with Dundee United with the midfielder one yellow card away from suspension.
Aribo has been one of the best players in Scottish football this season providing nine-goal involvements in 18 appearances for the Gers.
Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst is aware of the huge decision he has to make on whether to play the 25-year-old and potentially risk suspension.
Speaking to the Daily Record, he said: “Yes, of course.
“You are preparing the game, but you obviously have your plans for the next games if possible, especially if you have players one card from suspension.
“Also physically, you have to watch the load for the players. You have to take everything into account.
“Joe is a very big player for me. He has played his role really well, I’m really happy with his performances.
“When you have a midfield player who is dangerous with his runs, with his off the ball movement, you create more danger from different areas. It’s all good with him right now.”
Rangers should have enough to get past Dundee United without the Nigerian, but Van Bronckhorst may not want to take that risk as every point is vital in the battle for the title.
Especially as Aribo is one of the Bears’ standout performers of the season. Therefore, if he does feature, it is imperative he finishes the game without another booking taking his tally to six so far for the season.
This is increasingly important as the game Aribo could miss would be the Old firm derby with title rivals Celtic on January 2nd.
The Bears sit four points above their title rivals and would need Aribo on the pitch to give them the best chance possible on extending their lead at the top as they look to secure back-to-back titles.
The threshold goes from five to ten yellow cards for a player to be banned after the next round of fixtures, giving Aribo some breathing space heading into the second half of the season.
In other Rangers news, Chris Sutton fires back at Ally McCoist with Rangers Third Division jibe.