Philippe Clement must be wondering what he’s walked into at Ibrox.
The Rangers boss has been down to the bare bones for most of the season and once again finds himself staring down the barrel of an injury crisis. The Govan club’s Scottish Cup Final preparations have been wrecked by the fact up to NINE players could miss the end of season showpiece.
Several stars face a race against the clock to make the matchday squad and Clement himself admits it’s all ifs buts and maybes in terms of who will be ready to start against Celtic as he attempts to piece together a makeshift team. The Belgian must look with envy across the city as Brendan Rodgers has a full selection to choose from, a luxury that eventually helped Celtic storm to title glory. Here, Football Scotland assesses the Ibrox crocked list:
Souttar managed to steer clear of injury before being forced off at half-time at Parkhead earlier this month. Named in the Scotland squad but Saturday will come too soon for him.
(Image: PA)Goldson lost his place in the starting XI before his campaign was brought to a premature end by a knee injury. Clement could’ve done with his experience at Hampden on Saturday, though.
(Image: PA)Matondo’s season is over after suffering a muscle injury against Ross County last month. Has been unable to stay fit throughout the campaign which is a shame, considering he has shown glimpses of quality – even scoring a last-minute equaliser against Celtic.
(Image: SNS Group)It’s a cliche, but the £6m striker will be like a new signing for Rangers having missed the majority of the season through injury. Underwent knee surgery in December.
(Image: SNS Group)Rangers are in talks with Lens about extending Cortes’ stay in Glasgow after his loan was curtailed by – yep, you guessed it – injury. Looked like an exciting addition to the squad.
(Image: Getty Images)The experienced Nigerian defender, 35, hasn’t kicked a ball since suffering a back injury against Kilmarnock. Considered a major doubt. Out of contract and may have played his final game for the club.
(Image: SNS Group)Clement revealed the little left-back broke down in tears after picking up a knock against Hearts. Will be given right up until the last minute to prove his fitness.
(Image: SNS Group)Trabzonspor-bound Barisic wasn’t included in the matchday squad against Hearts and also faces a race against time to be fit for what would be his Rangers swansong.
(Image: SNS Group)Lawrence’s Ibrox career has been blighted by fitness issues and he’s currently sidelined with a muscle issue. Will be assessed but likely to only make the bench, at best.
(Image: PA)
