Rangers fans were hoping to get another sighting of newest recruit Bongani Zungu at the weekend but a knock picked up on international duty has delayed his second outing in Light Blue.
Thankfully Steven Gerrard has an almost fully fit squad to choose from and the other five midfielders he has at his disposal got a run out against Aberdeen on Sunday, but after such an impressive debut, Zungu is the one that Gers fans are looking forward to seeing the most and the gaffer had some good news ahead of this week’s clash with Benfica, as reported by The Scotsman.
When asked what the latest situation was with the South African’s fitness, he said:
“He has got a knock that we are assessing and checking out at the moment.
“We don’t think it is big so you could see him on Thursday against Benfica, hopefully. But don’t be surprised if he takes a little bit longer. But it is not a big problem, it is only days rather than weeks or months.”
If he doesn’t play on Thursday night it is unlikely that he will return to action against Falkirk in the league cup with the League 1 side having an artificial pitch, we have already learned that mistake with Kemar Roofe this season that players who have had previous issues should be managed accordingly on such unforgiving surfaces.
With no winter break Gerrard will need every player he has at his disposal fit and ready to play, whilst he has five other midfielders – and the team in general – all in form, there is no need to rush Zungu back – it is a marathon not a sprint after all.