Another week, another injury story but, for once, it doesn’t involve a forward with Philippe Clement and Rangers having to make do without a midfielder who has been a first pick.
The Gers boss has had to consistently cope without key players and, this time, it is no different with a squad that has rarely been fully fit since day one of the campaign.
If Rangers are to win the title, Philippe Clement will have to find a way to win regardless of who is and isn’t available.
Philippe Clement has Rangers midfield dilemma
For once, it isn’t a long term knee injury or a pulled hamstring, instead it is a little more random.
Speaking as part of the build-up for this weekend’s trip to Dingwall, Clement revealed that Mohamed Diomande will be missing:
“Diomande has small injury on the thumb. He needed an operation this morning on that so he will be out, not long but he will be out for the game.”
The young Ivorian has been fasting as part of Ramadan and will have been battling to get himself in best physical shape during games.
Even with the club’s help, it won’t have been easy for the 24-year old.
https://twitter.com/RangersFC/status/1777984868086956054
What this does though, is open up an opportunity for someone else to come into the side.
It might just be a matter of days but if someone plays well over the next couple of games in Diomande’s absence, they shouldn’t be dropped.
Kieran Dowell made an impact off the bench in the Old Firm.
Aside from one rogue pass across his own box, he brought a purpose, drive and composure to the midfield.
He might not be fully fit but it is clear that the summer signing wants to play his part in the run-in.
“The lads have done really well since I have had my recent injury so that has been good to be supporting them and we are in a good place going to the end of the season.
“You don’t realise how much you actually miss it until you are injured so I am chomping at the bit to make an impression and have a good end to the season.”
Most likely scenario that Clement will take
The most obvious choice is probably Dujon Sterling, he was moved to left-back for the derby but had Borna Barisic not been ill during the week, the Croatian would probably have been in his natural position.
Sterling has looked good everywhere he has played but with Abdallah Sima back in action, it would make sense for him to play on the right wing now.
The extra aggression and physicality that the former Chelsea player brings is a huge benefit at both ends of the pitch.
As an outside bet, Nicolas Raskin could force his way in but going from sitting in the stands to starting might be too big a leap.
Sterling to start then Dowell as an impact substitute looks like a good bet.
If they do well, Diomande could have a fight on his hands.
