It was a short statement, but one that hit hard to every Rangers fan ahead of the biggest week of the season and one that could prove to be pivotal as the campaign unfolds.
Late last night, the club revealed that Covid-19 had struck again just as Steven Gerrard prepares to take his side to Armenia before the first Old Firm derby of the season on Sunday:
“Rangers can confirm that during our testing schedule, we have received positive COVID-19 tests.
“Those identified as positive are now in self isolation along with ‘close contacts’.
“We have followed best practice in our procedures and protocols. From the outset of the pandemic, Rangers has worked closely with the Scottish Government and Scottish football to ensure the health of our staff is protected at all times. We will continue to do so.”
As yet, we don’t know who is affected, the usual WhatsApp rumours have circulated but until either the club makes an announcement about who is isolating or we see the pictures of who is boarding the plane, it is purely speculation.
The revelation brought despair amongst Gers fans who had been hoping to kick start their season with two positive results, taking to social media to vent their frustration:
Thanks weeks ruined already and I’ve still to watch you play twice
— Liam (Taylor’s Version) 🧣 (@LY1872) August 24, 2021
Tell us who? This week of all weeks
— Dean (@deanog99) August 24, 2021
Could not have happened at a worst time 😭 Main thing is though the players are alright
— JL-93 💙 (@JL_93x) August 24, 2021
— craig (@craigg_72) August 24, 2021
Madness.
— TheOldFashioned (@TOldFashioned) August 24, 2021
We re-group and move on , I’m sure I can get boots from Amazon on Prime tomorrow 🥴 gies a shout
— laynee GB🏴🇬🇧🟢⚪🟣 (@lanigersfan) August 24, 2021
It’s the not knowing that’s the frustration, obviously of primary importance is the health and welfare of the individuals affected but it is human nature to worry about key players being missing for such an important week – all eyes on Glasgow Airport this afternoon.