Rangers: ‘Positive’ development at Ibrox as Todd Cantwell could start v Hibernian
Todd Cantwell could make his first start since returning from injury when Rangers face Hibernian at Ibrox on 30 March, according to Joshua Barrie.
The Rangers Review journalist explained on 27 March that, having come off the bench in the 1-0 defeat to Benfica, the extra rest during the international break could set him up for a start.
Cantwell’s injury blow was described as “unfortunate” given the form he was beginning to show under Philippe Clement, and he will now be looking to pick up where he left off.
Speaking to The Rangers Review [27 March], Barrie explained: “It felt like he was starting to really kick into gear this season. It felt like we were just starting to see the best of Cantwell before that injury which was really unfortunate.
“But now you look at the number ten position with Tom Lawrence having had the best spell of his Rangers career so far, and it starts to look a little bit stronger.
“There’s the option that Cantwell has played off the left at points in his career as well, I don’t think that role would necessarily suit him under Clement, but it gives him a little bit more depth.
“It’s a real positive that he’s back. You’d imagine that because he’s not been away for the international break, maybe he will start against Hibs.”
Will Todd Cantwell start for Rangers v Hibernian
Dr Rajpal Brar had recently told Ibrox News that the international break had come at the wrong time for Cantwell’s recovery, with the risk of re-injury increased by the extended period without playing after a month out with the blow.
However, to look at it differently, he has had two extra weeks of rest and recovery, as well as training and getting back up to speed under Clement’s guidance, which could put him in a strong position to start the game against Hibs.
Barry Ferguson had even suggested that Cantwell could have started against Benfica, but the boss chose not to risk him, meaning now could be the ideal time for the midfielder to make his full return to the first team.
Given Cantwell’s talent which is fairly unique in this Rangers team, his return could be a huge boost to the squad amid the ongoing title race, and if he can replicate his performances pre-injury then Clement will be glad to have him back.
In other Rangers news, Cyriel Dessers was branded “terrible” after his display for Nigeria.
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