Michael Beale has told Friday’s press conference – as per the Rangers’ Twitter account – that Ibrox defender Ridvan Yilmaz will be out of action for three more weeks, making him unavailable for the League Cup final against Celtic.
£5million signing Yilmaz has endured a dismal time at Rangers, since joining the club from Besiktas last summer. The 21-year-old has since managed just seven appearances for the Gers. Injury has hampered his Ibrox progress.
It is a shame, given Yilmaz had played 62 games for Besiktas – having a hand in 11 goals from the left flank. He is a player with huge potential, and he could be the long-term replacement for Borna Barisic. But, he is yet to show that.
Yilmaz last played on October 29, picking up a long-term muscle issue. Beale gave an update ahead of Sunday’s clash against Partick Thistle in the Scottish Cup. He said that Yilmaz will be sidelined for another three weeks.
That will see him miss the League Cup final against Old Firm rivals Celtic on February 26, at Hampden Park: “Ridvan will be about another three weeks and I am looking forward to working with him when he returns to full training.”
Beale: Rangers defender Yilmaz unavailable for Cup final against Celtic
Of course, Barisic is first choice and he would be first choice even if Yilmaz was fit, he would be on the bench. But, it is still a blow that given – Barisic is not a stranger to injury. He is lacking in cover, which is supposed to be Barisic.
The defender’s return is clearly anticipated by Beale. He would finally allow Barisic to have a much-needed rest on the left side of the defence. But, Beale and Rangers will have to wait until March at the earliest before Yilmaz is fit.
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