Three Gers stars likely to play for their countries, one could miss out

26/03/2024 15:30

International breaks seem to be more frequent and longer than they were in the past with Rangers boss Philippe Clement sweating on the return of several of his players. 

The Gers gaffer hasn't had his injury problems to seek and will be hoping that, other than Ridvan Yilmaz, the players who are still away return in one piece. 

Three players remain with the countries as Rangers get set for one last push under Philippe Clement.

What Rangers players will Philippe Clement be sweating on?

Other than Ridvan, Ross McCausland was also sent home but he wasn't 100% when he left. 

After a couple of weeks off, he should be closer to full fitness by the weekend.

The four players still away from the club could have varying levels of involvement.

Who could start? 

Fabio Silva will one day want to earn promotion to his country’s senior side and his form since signing for Rangers suggests that it could be possible, it should also see him lead the line for Portugal Under-21’s again against Croatia. 

Another goal to match the one scored against the Faroe Islands would be a great confidence booster.

Cyriel Dessers started Nigeria's last game against Ghana but is likely to be on the bench for his country’s clash with Mali, even though he impressed and scored from the spot.

Rabbi Matondo is also likely to have to keep the bench warm and he, probably, would have benefitted more from staying at Auchenhowie over the last couple of weeks as he looks to build sharpness.

John Souttar should be given the chance to prove that his performance against the Netherlands was a one off, after all, it is a defence that has shipped 18 goals in six games.

Players like Jack Hendry and Ryan Porteous seem to be getting let off the hook by Steve Clarke despite conceding goals and Souttar has shown this season he deserves to play.

Put it this way, out of the three players, who would you rather have?

All four of their teams play tonight which gives them the chance to return to the training ground to prepare for Rangers game with Hibernian at the weekend.

Given Rangers severe lack of forward options, Silva and Dessers in particular need to return in one piece and ready to go.

They will be the players that Philippe Clement turns to score the goals needed to bring the Scottish Premiership title back to Ibrox.