Philippe Clement has updated on Abdallah Sima's Rangers availability after Senegal called up the winger for the African Cup of Nations.
The Brighton loanee has been in fine form since moving to Glasgow this season and he is currently the club’s top goalscorer ahead of captain James Tavernier.
His form has now been rewarded with a place in Senegal's final squad for the tournament and Clement has told of his delight for his player, despite his obvious frustration at losing him for a number of games.
He explained: "That's not a nice question! That's a mean one, to be honest. No, I'm not happy that he's selected but I understand.
"I've been an international myself and it was a great honour to play for my country. I was always really proud every time it happened so I understand that it's really important for the players.
"As a club, as a manager, nothing to do to go against it, it's strange to have a tournament during a season. We're not the only team in the world in that way also so it's things you need to accept and to be happy for him that he gets the respect out of his country and he deserves it.
"We had talks with the federation and we made an agreement that he has to leave on the 3rd of January so he's still available for the 2nd of January. That was also important so there was respect on both sides."
Early indications suggest that Sima could miss up to five Rangers games with AFCON running from January 13 to February 11, but his involvement will obviously depend on Senegal's form at the tournament.
Sima could miss matches against Dumbarton in the Scottish Cup and also Hibs, St Mirren, Livingston and Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership.
