Ryan Jack ‘ready to step in’ for Scotland after making training ground promise at Rangers
Ryan Jack believes hard work and hours in training with Rangers will help him retain his place in the Scotland squad over the next year.
Jack has endured a frustrating start to the season at Ibrox, but retained his place in the Scotland squad for the recent international break.
He started for Steve Clarke’s side in their crucial Nations League tie with Ukraine, and starred for 72 minutes to help Scotland achieve promotion.
As he now prepares to return to Rangers, Jack issued a promise to “work hard” at Ibrox in order to retain his spot in Clarke’s side.
“I just keep working hard every day at my club and whatever will be will be. It’s just important that I work hard and make sure I’m ready to play on nights like against Ukraine,” Jack told the Daily Record.
“I train hard and be ready to step in when needed.
“Going forward I’ll obviously play more and get a good run of games together that I can start building on good performances. There are going to be some great games for us and a lot to look forward to.
“It’s a test for us as players and as a staff. If we want to compete at that level then it’s time for us to try and show that.”
Keeping fit
Jack’s position in the Scotland squad is relatively safe, but he’ll have to build on his form for Rangers and stay fit.
When fit, Jack has been a regular starter for Giovanni van Bronckhorst. He started against both Napoli and Dundee United but looked lacking in match sharpness.
However, Jack looked assured and confident against Ukraine and he’ll hope to build on that form for Rangers upon his return to Ibrox this week.
His fitness will still need tracking, and he’ll likely continue his current pattern of coming off halfway through the second half.
At 30 years old, he should be enjoying his prime years in midfield and needs to focus on simply being consistently available for both club and country.
He seems to be liked by both Van Bronckhorst and Clarke, so provided he stays fit, there’s no reason he should miss out on games for Rangers or Scotland this season.
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