Philippe Clement will be keen to have more options at his disposal as he desperately seeks a strong end to Rangers' season.
Danilo, Connor Barron, and Dujon Sterling all missed the 3-1 Scottish Premiership victory over Hearts on Sunday but the Rangers manager has confirmed the trio are nearing a return to full fitness.
The Belgian shared that while these players are close to training with the team, their physical readiness will determine when they can rejoin the matchday squad over the coming weeks.
Clement also highlighted the impressive form of Clinton Nsiala, who is quickly proving to be a valuable summer signing from AC Milan, showing consistent development since stepping into the first team.
Addressing the prospect of having key performers fit again, Clement said: “It’s a difficult one. Towards training but towards a game it is going to be more difficult. I hope to recover one or two bodies more in the training.
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“I think Danilo will start to be in training with contact now. Connor Barron is close towards training. Dujon Sterling is also close to training. But then we need to see what their physical level is.”
Clement would then go on to highlight the role of 21-year-old Nsiala, who had to remain patient for his opportunity, yet hasn't looked back since making his Rangers debut on January 9.
“I need to praise him and I don’t do that so often or fast with young players," explained the Rangers boss. "He is showing consistency from the moment he stepped into the team. You see him developing week after week. He is so focused on getting better.
“He’s so hungry to become better and those are the kind of young players you are looking for as they develop fast. It’s not the question to keep this focus, concentration and hard work. Then he will be a really good signing at the end of the season.”
(Image: Andrew Milligan)