Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has confirmed that Ryan Jack is facing a late fitness battle to be fit against Hibernian as he tries to overcome a minor injury blow.
The midfield mainstay played the full 90 minutes against former side Aberdeen last week but has been struck down with a knock, leaving him doubtful as the Gers prepare to face Hibs on Friday night.
Speaking ahead of the weekend’s opening game, Gerrard told the club’s official Twitter account that the Scottish international would take some part in training before assessing whether he would be ready to face Hibs.
He said: “Ryan Jack has a knock at the moment and is still sore, he will try and do some training today but I’ll have to make a decision after training. I’ll give him every chance but I won’t take a risk.”
??SG: Ryan Jack has a knock at the moment and is still sore, he will try and do some training today but I'll have to make a decision after training. I'll give him every chance but I won't take a risk.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) March 7, 2019
Opinion
Losing Jack would not do the Light Blues’ hopes any good whatsoever and as such Gerrard will be desperately hoping that he can pull off a last minute recovery from his ailment. Yes, the Gers boss has other midfielders at his disposal but Jack brings a balance and composure to the side that not only allows him to impress but gives his teammates what they need to succeed. Still, if there is any doubting his fitness then Gerrard cannot afford to take that gamble, for it is better to see him sit out one game than play at less than 100 per cent and risk aggravating the problem even further. There should be enough quality in the side to see off Hibernian and one man’s absence should not be the be all and end all of it. The sooner Jack is back for the Ibrox outfit, the better it will be for the team – but that should not be Friday if he is not fit and firing.