Derek Ferguson has labelled Rangers’ injury crisis as “frightening” ahead of the Viaplay Cup final, with several key players missing ahead of the clash with Aberdeen.
Rangers could be without seven key players going into the game on 17 December, casting doubt over the strength of their squad and whether they will be at the top of their game for the final.
With the likes of Danilo, Tom Lawrence and Todd Cantwell all possibly absent, Philippe Clement will be forced to operate with a weakened squad as he looks for a first win over Aberdeen this season.
“It’s never going to be a gimme against Aberdeen,” said Ferguson on the Open Goal podcast [14 December]. “Because, as we see they’re always close games and Rangers haven’t beaten them.
“You just look at the injuries Rangers have got at the minute, it’s horrendous.
“Jack’s not there, Raskin’s not there, Lawrence is not there, Cantwell might not be there, it’s frightening. Cifuentes… Scott Wright’s not there as well, it’s incredible.”
Players will need to step up
Given the notable absences from the Rangers first-team, the rest of the squad will be forced to step up and perform at a higher level to make up for those losses in a game which was bound to be a difficult one regardless of the injuries at hand.
With a 3-1 defeat and close-run 1-1 draw from their two games so far this season, Aberdeen have proved to be a tricky opponent for Rangers and will be hoping they can keep their good run going and continue to frustrate the Glasgow side on Sunday.
Ferguson’s comments suggest a lack of confidence given the injury crisis, but it is important for the players who will be playing to keep their heads and not become concerned with the players who are missing.
It will be left to Clement and his squad to plug those gaps and show their strength in depth if they are to win what they hope will be the first of many when it comes to lifting silverware this season, with this the first opportunity to do so.
