Ibrox midfielder Andy Halliday is currently on loan from Rangers with Azerbaijan outfit FK Gabala.
Pedro Caixinha’s tumultuous reign as Rangers manager came under huge criticism for a number of things – lack of squad harmony, poor signings from overseas and his unnecessary, yet regular comments in the media.
But now, another cross against the Portuguese manager’s time in the Ibrox dugout has arisen, as interim manager Graeme Murty suffers a mini crisis in midfield ahead of Wednesday night’s clash against Hibernian.
Rangers’ November Player of the Month Ross McCrorie has suffered a minor injury, which has made him a doubt for the encounter against former Celtic manager Neil Lennon and his Hibs side.
Aggressive midfielder Ryan Jack is serving the second match of a three-game suspension after a strong challenge on Aberdeen striker Stevie May saw him receive his fourth red card of the season. Graham Dorrans remains out with an ankle injury.
Murty is expected to stick with his successful diamond formation which means the Gers are left with just Jason Holt and Carlos Pena as established, first-team central midfielders available to play.
It has highlighted another bad move on Caixinha’s part as Andy Halliday remains on loan with FK Gabala, despite failing to be given any game time in the Azerbaijan side’s last six league outings. He was an unused sub for five of those.
Halliday, 26, would have been the perfect squad player to turn to with the Ibrox club in need ahead of what is a crucial encounter at Easter Road, but Murty and co. will now be ruing their predecessor’s decision.
It remains to be seen if Halliday could be recalled in January, as his loan becomes somewhat of a waste in Eastern Europe.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
