Ryan Naderi 'disappointed' as Rangers forward involved in paperwork hold-up
Ryan Naderi's form for Rangers was supposed to see him rewarded with an international call-up this week.
However, that is not the case - but not through any doing of the forward's own.
It was reported this week that Naderi has opted to represent Czechia at international level.
The 23-year-old is also eligible to represent Bulgaria through his mother, as well as Germany, where he was born.
But it has now been confirmed Naderi has decided to play for Czechia, the nation of his father's birth.
Czechia general manager Pavel Nedved shared an update on Friday and revealed why there looks set to be a delay to his senior debut.
Why is Ryan Naderi's Czechia debut being held up?
Naderi has impressed for Rangers of late, particularly in last week's Old Firm win over Celtic.
However, Naderi is a doubt for Rangers' latest clash with Celtic this Sunday due to injury.
That is not what is holding up his possible Czechia debut over the upcoming international break, though.
Instead, it is down to the relevant paperwork not being finalised as of yet.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, as quoted by Infotbal, Nedved explained: "He is a player we would like to call up to the national team. Unfortunately, we cannot do that at this moment, even though he has Czech citizenship.
"The last administrative steps are missing so that he can be called up to the national team. Our legal department is doing everything possible to ensure that these documents are processed as quickly as possible.
"He took care of the paperwork [in Scotland]. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to get the paperwork done in Brno or Prague yet. It's being worked on. I would be very happy if it was done as quickly as possible."
Nedved added that Naderi is "excited" to represent Czechia, though he is also "disappointed" he may not get the chance to do so this window.
Why Naderi's Czechia delay could be Rangers blessing
Derek McInnes would not begrudge any Rangers player representing their national teams this autumn.
But when it comes to Naderi, giving the attacker a couple of weeks away from the field may make sense.
He is a big doubt to face Celtic this weekend and could clearly do with resting up his ankle.
Czechia play four games this break and it is not out of the question Naderi would be involved in each of those if available.
His time will come, but for now let's just hope he is given the chance to return to full fitness.