Rangers injury update as star now ‘racing’ to be fit at Ibrox
Rangers midfielder Jose Cifuentes is “racing” to be back fit before the January break, according to the Daily Record.
The newspaper reported in its print version on Wednesday (20 December) that he will hopefully be back in action before the Gers head away for their break next month.
The 24-year-old was withdrawn at half-time of the Europa League group stage clash against Real Betis last Thursday (14 December).
“The Ecuador international limped off against Real Betis last week, leaving Clement worrying he could be another long-term crock,” according to the Daily Record (page 44, 20 December).
“But Cifuentes – suspended for tonight’s clash with St Johnstone – is racing to be back fit before the Premiership goes into winter lockdown after the visit of Kilmarnock on January 2.”
Blow
The midfield ace has been used sporadically by Clement across all competitions since the manager took over from Michael Beale.
It was, of course, the former Gers manager who brought the Ecuador international to Ibrox, with Cifuentes joining from Los Angeles FC in August.
He now has 20 appearances to his name in all competitions, but faces some time on the sidelines with his current issue.
It is a blow for the Gers and the man in the dugout, with Clement needing as many senior players available as possible given the very busy schedule.
Having defeated Real Betis in Europe and then Aberdeen in the Viaplay Cup final on Sunday (17 December), the Glasgow club return to Scottish Premiership action against St Johnstone on Wednesday (20 December).
And three matches follow that clash at Ibrox before the year comes to an end, with the Gers set to face Motherwell, Ross County and Celtic in league action.
In other Rangers news, Todd Cantwell has sent a four-word message to one of his teammates after their Viaplay Cup final win against Aberdeen.