Next few months critical for Kemar Roofe as Rangers striker returns to training
Rangers striker Kemar Roofe has finally returned to training, and Michael Beale has said in the press conference (10 February) that he looked sharp.
The Bears will face Partick Thistle in the Scottish FA Cup on 12 February and there is a high chance that Roofe could be involved in that game.
The 30-year-old has a contract at Ibrox until 2024, but his performances in the next few games could determine his future.
“Kemar Roofe is back in training, Hagi has had an extra week of training. Kemar is looking sharp, hopefully, he can get a run of good health now,” said Beale, as relayed by Rangers Twitter handle.
Roofe is a quality player but he has hardly played this season, mainly due to injuries.
He played a crucial role for the club, especially in European games. The former Leeds striker has managed just 21 minutes of Scottish Premiership football this season, but Beale knows what Roofe can bring to the table.
Roofe can play as a striker or across all three positions upfront. He can play on the wings or behind the striker, in the no 10 role. Beale can use him in a lot of positions if needed, but there lies the big conundrum.
The Jamaican forward is not a pacer winger, and thus Beale is unlikely to use him on the wings. Likewise, the club now have loads of options in the attacking midfield areas following the arrival of Todd Cantwell.
In the forward position, Roofe is expected to fight for his place against Alfredo Morelos and Antonio Colak. Even, Fashion Sakala is probably ahead of him in the pecking order.
Roofe will need time to get back to full fitness, but whether Beale will give him enough game time remains to be seen. It seems like the Gers boss is still hopeful Roofe can play a major role for the rest of the season, and for that, he needs to stay fit.
Considering his age, there could be temptations from Rangers to offload him if they receive any good offer for him in the summer. So, the next few games are crucial for Roofe as his future could be on the line here.
In other Rangers news, the Ibrox bank is set for a cash boost after a document emerged on Wednesday.