Why Danny Rohl’s Connor Barron update is the lift that Rangers fans didn’t know they needed

Danny Rohl confirmed on Friday that Connor Barron has returned to first-team training for Rangers.

The midfielder has been missing through injury since the turn of the year with a knee problem that raised questions of if he could come back before the end of the season.

Rohl has been fortunate enough that the 49ers got a deal through for Tochi Chukwuani in the winter window, as his midfield options were lacking options at the time.

Barron had been impressing in his performances right before the time of his setback, and the Bears may actually have a season-defining boost through his return.

This is why Connor Barron return could be pivotal for Rangers

Barron took his time to settle in at Rangers, and is arguably still underrated by the Ibrox faithful.

Nevertheless, the midfielder has done his talking through his displays, but unfortunately for him, he faces a tough task of getting back into the starting eleven.

However, with him soon returning to matchday squads, he now offers Rohl a crucial layer of protection from the bench if needed, even if he isn’t up to match fitness.

But later down the line, there now seems to be a chance that he could come into start and rotate in games when needed.

Connor Barron's 25-26 Premiership stats for Rangers
Credit: Imago

As highlighted in the graphic above, Barron’s average Sofascore match rating of 6.95 alongside his 88 per cent passing rate proved he was a solid performer before his injury,

Which Rangers midfielder could be let go in the summer?

There’s a growing feeling that Bailey Rice could leave Ibrox permanently this summer, but the youngster hasn’t exactly shown what he’s all about yet.

Another man who could be in for a move is Mohamed Diomande who has been in and out of the starting team under Rohl, unable to cement his spot.

Player
Connor Barron
Tochi Chukwuani
Nicolas Raskin
Bailey Rice
Mohamed Diomande
Lyall Cameron (out on loan)
Rangers’ central midfield options

If things carry on the way they are going, the Ivorian could seek a summer exit in search of more game time.

As for Nicolas Raskin, Rohl will no doubt want to keep him, but whether Rangers can fend off inevitable European interest once more is another question.

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