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Rangers receive welcome boost as Gerrard announces return of key player

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Rangers have been given a boost ahead of their Europa League last 32 fixture with the news that Borna Barisic will be available for selection, as reported in The Scottish Sun.

Braga are the hosts in Portugal as they look to overturn a 3-2 deficit from a memorable first leg at Ibrox in which the Gers came from 2-0 down to stage the most unlikely of comebacks.

The Croatian left-back was injured during the game in Glasgow after receiving a heavy blow to his kidney which meant he had to sit out the weekend draw with St Johnstone, ironically it was his stand-in in defence that stole the show as Joe Aribo scored a stunning solo effort.

Steven Gerrard said in his pre-match conference of the full-back’s availability:

“Borna is with us and came through training alone yesterday and then with the group today. So he is available.”

Barisic is having a fine season with 14 assists and 2 goals, providing creativity from the left flank that was sorely missing last season, he will also provide additional defensive security to help the recently ropey back line.

One player who still isn’t available – and with no projected time frame for his recovery – is Filip Helander, with Gerrard revealing after the St Johnstone game just how much he and his defence has missed him.

Will Rangers progress past Braga in the Europa League?

Yes

Yes

No

No

With the Scottish Premiership seemingly gone for another season, Gerrard will be thankful that he has an opportunity to put a smile back on the faces of the faithful Gers support with two competitions in one week providing a welcome distraction from league duties, Barisic’s return goes a small way in improving his chances of progressing in both as he looks to salvage something from the season.

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