Ally McCoist raves about Rangers star Joe Aribo
Former Rangers striker Ally McCoist expressed his delight at the early return of Joe Aribo from the Africa Cup of Nations after defeat to Tunisia.
Aribo’s Nigeria side were knocked out of the competition thanks to a Youssef Msakni goal but that does mean that the 25-year-old is available for selection earlier than expected.
McCoist admitted to supporting Tunisia over Aribo’s Nigeria on BT Sport’s Scottish Football Extra on Tuesday (25 January, 07:05 pm) as he hoped the Light Blues star could return as soon as possible.
McCoist refers to wearing an Algeria scarf but we can only assume he has got mistaken between them and Tunisia.
“I’ve got to be brutally honest here, I sat and watched with my Algeria scarf on and I cannot lie to you, as disappointed as I was for Nigeria and Joe, I got over it very quickly,” said McCoist.
“He’s absolutely vital. He’s probably been one of the best players in the league so far this year.
“I think it would be very important for Rangers’ chances of retaining the title to have a fit and healthy Joe Aribo arrive safely back on these shores.”
Massive boost
Aribo’s earlier than expected return will no doubt be a disappointment to the 25-year-old who would have wanted to go all the way with his national side.
But for van Bronckhorst and Rangers fans everywhere, it is a huge boost with a crucial run of games coming up in the race for the Scottish Premiership title.
The most vital of those games being the Old Firm derby on 2 February which he was due to miss had Nigeria gone further in the competition.
Top scorer Alfredo Morelos will miss the game thanks to World Cup qualifiers with Colombia so Aribo’s availability is needed more than ever.
A season-ending injury for Ianis Hagi hasn’t helped the midfield concerns at Ibrox but the debut of Alex Lowry will give assurances to the manager that he has capable backups.
Aribo may miss Wednesday’s (26 January) game against Livingston to rest but he should be ready to play by the weekend.
In other Rangers news, Fashion Sakala has also voiced his delight at Aribo’s arrival.