Rangers official partner detail Ianis Hagi absence ahead of SPFL clash v Hearts

The Heart and Hand Podcast have revealed Ianis Hagi is not injured despite the Romanian not being in the squad for Rangers’ Scottish Premiership clash against Hearts.

Hagi made his long-awaited return to action in the Gers’ weekend win over St Johnstone, after coming on as a second-half substitute.

However, Michael Beale has opted to not include him in his squad to face Robbie Neilson’s side and the Heart and Hand have revealed the 24-year-old will be managed back slowly.

“Hagi isn’t injured but isn’t ready to play every game yet. He’ll be managed back slowly,” the club’s official media partner wrote (Twitter, 1 February).

Smart move

Hagi has endured a really tough year, and it’s absolutely crucial for the Gers to ease him back into proceedings. He’s at an age where another serious injury could well prove to be career-ending. He’s such a talented player and having him back will be a huge boost for Beale.

The Light Blues’ boss is now well-stocked when it comes to attacking midfield options and the Romanian will add further competition for places. Come the summer it seems unlikely for the former QPR boss to delve into the market for another forward-thinking midfielder.

rangers

A striker will certainly be on Beale’s mind, with Alfredo Morelos’ future once again up in the air. The Colombian has yet to sign a new deal at Ibrox and could leave for free if an agreement cannot be reached.

Furthermore, the goalkeeping situation also needs rectifying, with Allan McGregor set to call it a day at the end of the 2022/23 campaign.

In other Rangers news, one Bears star has taken to social media to mock criticism from a Sky Sports pundit