Rangers: Philippe Clement provides early team news v Benfica as Dujon Sterling update emerges
Philippe Clement has shared an update on Dujon Sterling and Todd Cantwell’s availability as Rangers prepare to take on Benfica in the Europa League on Thursday (14 March).
The former Chelsea defender has thrived under the Belgian manager since his arrival at Ibrox in October, being utilised in positions all over the pitch, but was forced off the pitch after just 34 minutes against Hibernian on Sunday 10 March.
Cantwell has emerged as a true leader at Ibrox, improving massively upon his goal contributions and ability on the ball, quickly becoming one of Clement’s first names on the teamsheet.
Speaking via the club’s official X account on Wednesday (13 March), he said: “Todd is ready to play a number of minutes as discussed with the medical staff, clearly not ready for 90 minutes. He was good in the training and I’m happy to see him back.
“Dujon will not be in the squad, it is a minor issue but we won’t take the risk – we will see where he is ahead of Sunday. Ross McCausland did one part of training today and we will see tomorrow how he is.”
Dujon Sterling absence hands Rangers huge blow v Benfica
Having scored against Benfica in the first leg in Lisbon, fans will be extremely disappointed that Sterling is unavailable for the second fixture at Ibrox.
His talents on the pitch have come on leaps and bounds under Clement, emerging as a utility player in most positions, ranging from full-back to midfield, and even to winger.
The return of Cantwell, however, will provide a significant boost for the Gers, having missed five matches in all competitions since leaving the field against St Johnstone on Sunday 18 February.
With the full backing of the Ibrox faithful, Clement will have every confidence that his team can pull off the victory over Benfica despite being pegged back twice in Lisbon.
In addition to the possibility of Europa League success, having Cantwell back will also be important during the run-in to the end of the Scottish Premiership, with a chance to win their second league title in the last decade.
In other Rangers news, an exit deal for a senior Ibrox ace is wanted before the season’s end.
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