Michael Beale impressed by Ibrox star after return to Rangers training on Tuesday

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Michael Beale told his press conference on Tuesday afternoon – as per The Record – that Rangers star Borna Barisic looks in a “great place” after his return to training a day before Wednesday night’s clash against Motherwell at Ibrox.

Barisic, 29, had been given extended leave by Rangers after representing Croatia at the World Cup in Qatar. The left-back only played once in Croatia’s seven games, as they reached the semi-finals – and won the third-place play-off.

Indeed, the Rangers defender was only used in the penalty-shootout win over Japan in the last 16. He saw out the entire 120 minutes, with Borna Sosa preferred at left-back. But Beale still gave him extended leave. Now, he is back.

Rangers have used Adam Devine, a young right-back, on the left side of defence in Beale’s first three games. Ridvan Yilmaz remains sidelined with injury. Asked about Barisic, Beale said he returned on Boxing Day and trained Tuesday.

“Yes, he’s been training. He arrived back yesterday. He trained today and looked in a great place. He’s just had a big experience again getting to another semi-final in his first World Cup,” Beale said, as per the Record’s coverage.

“He’s come back in a really positive place. We are slowly but surely getting back to where we need to be. It’s the biggest group of players that I have had since I returned in terms of training,” Beale added, ahead of Motherwell.

Beale: Rangers star Barisic in a great place after return to training

Should he start? It might be harsh on Devine but if Barisic is ready and good to go, then he has got to start at left-back. Devine has done a good job but ultimately, he is a right-footed rookie, playing on the wrong side of defence.

What Barisic’s absence has done for Devine, though, is prove to Rangers fans he can be trusted in big games. Other than Celtic, not many come as big as Aberdeen and Hibernian. He passed those games with flying colours on the left.

But if Barisic is ready and can come in straight away, then it is a no-brainer for Beale. The Croatia international has got to start for Rangers come Wednesday night at Ibrox – as Beale looks to make it four wins from four.