Saikat Mandal

Sat 8 October 2022 13:10, UK

Kemar Roofe has returned to full training at Ibrox and he could be in the squad on Saturday (8 October) as Rangers take on St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership.

The former Leeds striker has missed the whole season so far, but his return to the first team comes as a huge boost for the Dutchman.

The forward line has been already bolstered this summer by adding Antonio Colak who has been in great form, and Roofe’s return will add extra depth to that region.

This is a big opportunity for Roofe, if he is picked, to make an impact.

Colak has been in tremendous form, and Alfredo Morelos has struggled to get into the first team on a regular basis.

In such a scenario, Roofe, who understandably will be rusty, needs to show his quality.

The 29-year-old impressed heavily in the Europa League campaign last season before he picked up an injury, but faces a strong battle to cement his position in the side.

Roofe is an enigma for the Gers’ boss. He is a fantastic goalscorer but he is not a typical number nine. He can operate behind the striker or play in the attacking role.

Alan Hutton described him as a “class” player on BBC Radio 5 Live as relayed by the BBC Website on 10 April earlier this year during Rangers’ 4-0 win against St Mirren last season. So, he can make a big difference.

However, the Bears have loads of options in the attacking midfield areas, and it will be interesting to see how the Dutchman uses him this season.

Roofe has a contract at the club until 2024. In terms of a contract, it’s not a big headache, but he could face an uncertain future.

He was heavily linked with a move away from the club this summer. The Sunday Mirror reported on 17 July that Derby County were preparing a loan bid for the striker, but in the end, the deal didn’t materialise.

If he fails to deliver now, this could be his last season at the club.

In other Rangers news, this finance expert admits the Bears have numerous options on the table to generate more investment when needed