Croatian left-back Barisic is once again absent as Glasgow Rangers host Villarreal in the Europa League.
The last time Rangers played Villarreal in the Europa League, Borna Barisic played his part in a terrific second-half comeback.
The Croatian international – a £2 million signing from NK Osijek in the summer (the Mail) – set up Kyle Lafferty’s equaliser in a thrilling 2-2 draw with a powerful burst and sublime cross; the sort of quality delivery that he has made his trademark.
But, with Villarreal hoping for revenge at Ibrox on Thursday with a place in the knockout rounds up for grabs, Barisic is set to miss out.
The left-back has been absent from Rangers’ starting XI since a 1-0 defeat at Livingston in September. And, although he has returned to training recently, manager Steven Gerrard told the Scottish Sun that he is not yet fit to face the La Liga side at Ibrox.
It seems that some Rangers fans are getting increasingly concerned about Barisic’s extended absence, while others are counting down the days until his return to first-team action.
No one could question the commitment of Andy Halliday or Jon Flanagan, but they simply do not provide the same thrust and pinpoint deliveries from out wide.
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