Steven Gerrard stresses Joe Aribo's absence 'not Covid-related' after Rangers midfielder misses Benfica showdown

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard was at pains to make it clear Joe Aribo had not tested positive for coronavirus after the Nigerian international was forced to sit out the Europa League match against Benfica at Ibrox on Thursday night.
Joe Aribo scored in Rangers' 4-0 win over Aberdeen last Sunday but missed the Europa League clash with Benfica because of a stomach complaint. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)Joe Aribo scored in Rangers' 4-0 win over Aberdeen last Sunday but missed the Europa League clash with Benfica because of a stomach complaint. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)
Joe Aribo scored in Rangers' 4-0 win over Aberdeen last Sunday but missed the Europa League clash with Benfica because of a stomach complaint. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)

Aribo missed the 2-2 draw against the Portuguese side because of illness and Gerrard was quick to quash any rumours that it was because of Covid-19. The 24-year-old could return to action for Rangers in their Betfred Cup round of 16 tie away to Falkirk on Sunday evening.

“It’s important to say it is not Covid-related,” said Gerrard. “He was negative on his test, before people start putting two and two together.

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“He was unwell. He had a stomach complaint last night (Wednesday). Hopefully he will be available for the weekend.”

Rangers were also without the injured duo of Ryan Jack and Bongani Zungu against Benfica and both will be assessed before the trip to the Falkirk Stadium.

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