Gary McAllister gave an update on Ryan Jack’s injury problem that has seen him miss the last few weeks and we could see him return during an important period of the season, as reported by The Daily Record.
Speaking as part of the build up to the St Johnstone game, the Gers assistant manager was hopeful about the midfielder making an imminent return to action:
“Ryan Jack has had a couple days training which is a big boost, we are hopeful he makes the squad for Boxing Day against Hibs and also Alfredo returns to the squad.”
Jack might not be the most prolific of players when it comes to goals and assists, however, there is one statistic that has made it’s way onto social media that suggests his importance at the opposite end of the park.
Andrew MacLean, reporter for Radio Clyde revealed just how pivotal the former Aberdeen skipper has been to Steven Gerrard’s side this season.
Rangers haven’t conceded a goal in the 13 Premiership matches Ryan Jack has featured in this season.
They’ve only kept 1 clean sheet in the 5 Premiership games he’s missed.
— Andrew Maclean (@_AndrewMaclean) December 22, 2020
Obviously, it isn’t purely down to the presence of Jack that has seen us keep teams at bay when he has featured, however, it does suggest that his ability to protect the back four and cover/support his full-backs plays it’s part in preventing the errors that has seen the goals conceded in the last week or so.
Is Jack still a guaranteed starter when fit?
Yes
No
For example, and yes, hindsight is a wonderful thing, but there is every chance that the goals conceded against St Mirren would’ve been prevented if Jack had been available, he might not have the best passing range but what he is the best at is snuffing out danger and his skill-set would be greatly appreciated with games against Hibs, Celtic and Aberdeen all in the next few weeks.