Ryan Jack has heralded the return of John Souttar to first team contention after the Scotland international made his long awaited comeback on Saturday.
His late sub appearance against Kilmarnock has been followed up with 45 minutes for the B team in Wednesday’s 1-3 Glasgow Cup defeat to Celtic. Now the Scottish Cup tie against Raith Rovers will be in his sights.
Jack himself is no stanger to injury layoffs unfortunately. He knows all about what it takes and the arduous process to recover following a signficant setback. He has praised his teammate for club and country to go on and make his mark, as reported by the Rangers Review:
“He’s been training superbly and it was great to see him out there on Saturday. It can be a long journey at times, a long road but John has always been in the training centre, around the squad working hard, that’s all you can really do. I’ve said that myself when I’ve had my own injuries.”
“You just have to work hard, get year head down and make sure you come back fit and strong. John’s done just that. When John is fully fit he’s a top player. You’ve seen in the past what he can bring playing on the international stage at the highest level.”
“For us, he’ll be a great addition back in the squad and going forward I’m sure he’ll add to us and bring that quality and presence at the back.”
Challenge
In the same piece, Jack states his opinion that he feels Souttar doesn’t have a point to prove but in fact he absolutely does need to prove his fitness and viability as a Rangers first team player. His ability and potential impact isn’t in question but given his track record and the decision to sanction his signing, can he now stay fit to go on and make his mark for Michael Beale? That remains to be seen.
His return improves the picture in central defence with the manager now having a third senior option as well as Leon King in reserve.
What comes next really matters for John Souttar in what hopefully will be a great addition rather than further disappointment due to injury.