Blow for Steven Gerrard as key man ruled out of UFA clash

Steven Gerrard has ruled Malawian defensive midfielder Lassana Coulibaly out for a third match in a row after confirming the on-loan Angers man will miss tomorrow’s play-off clash with Russians FC UFA.

Coulibaly picked up a thigh injury against St Mirren earlier this month, and despite earlier information that it was only minor, his continued absence following improved performances and increasing importance to the team comes as something of a blow.

The best midfield display from Rangers under Gerrard was at Pittodrie where he, Ryan Jack and Scott Arfield bossed the game, and sadly that’s the only time that trio have been able to play together.

And this is set to continue as the midfield powerhouse continues to be unavailable for the third 90 minutes in succession.

Thankfully Rangers have Ross McCrorie ready who can fill in pretty similarly in that slot, but nevertheless we did think the international would be fit again by now.