Rangers boss updates five injury lay-offs including Kemar Roofe and Scott Arfield blow, plus training boost for Ryan Jack

Steven Gerrard is facing a trip to Aberdeen this weekend without five first-team players plus long-term absentee Nikola Katic.

Scott Arfield leaves the field with an injury during the Scottish Premiership match between Rangers and Hibernian at Ibrox on December 26, 2020. (Photo by Rob Casey / SNS Group)

The Croatian defender has been out since the summer, but recent images on social media have shown him looking strong as he continues his rehabilitation from a knee ligament injury.

However more recent injuries have impacted the Rangers squad with Scott Arfield hobbling off against Hibs on Boxing Day and Kemar Roofe replaced at half-time of the January 2 win over Celtic.

Ryan Jack’s come-back from a knee problem has also been awaited and the Rangers manager addressed all three injuries, and others, in his press conference this morning. George Edmundson and Jordan Jones have also joined the trio on the treatment table.

Gerrard explained: "Scott Arfield has an ankle ligament injury so it is quite significant, he is progressing well but missing in the short-term. Ryan Jack has had a few sessions and should be back with the team full training next week.

“Kemar Roofe won't be with us at the weekend and could miss a couple of games.

“Jordan Jones has a calf issue and should be back next week. George Edmundson is to see a specialist as he has an issue with his hip area.”

Rangers have had an intensive run of matches across their Europa League commitments, the Betfred Cup and league campaign through the festive period – but are in the midst of eight days without a game.

Gerrard added: “We normally play Thursday to Sunday so it has been nice to have a week to prepare. It’s a good chance for us to reset ahead of the weekend.”

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