We absolutely hate picking on Joe Aribo, because that’s what it feels like we’re doing, but the Nigerian, yet again in 2022, was not at his best, and if ever a magical burst of form has deteriorated into a spell of nothingness, it’s what’s coming from the former Charlton man.

He was devastating till late December, but that trip to AFCON seems to have messed with him and he’s come back a pale imitation of the player who left.

But Gio’s stuck by him.

He’s been happy to rest Borna Barisic who also lost his way, but for some reason won’t give Aribo a time out.

The guy is completely and utterly out of form, and while we applauded him for resting Barisic in his tough spell, he’s failed to do that with Aribo.

And the 25-year old has suffered for it.

It’s not like there’s a lack of competition. Even with Ianis Hagi injured Aribo still has young Alex Lowry and Wales’ Aaron Ramsey to push him, so it’s hardly the case he’s playing by default.

It’s just our manager seems to be sticking with him come hell or high water and it’s clear Joe needs a little time out, Barisic style.

We love Aribo, we want to be clear – if he’s reading this he’ll know how highly rated by Ibrox Noise he is. We have a lot of respect for him and still remember a big favour he did for us a year or two ago.

He will also know, like an intelligent lad as he is, that he’s not been at it. Hell, he’s already admitted he’s not.

So a little spell out of the team to regain focus is vital.

Enough of the ‘this is the match he kicks on with’. Because he hasn’t.

Give him a little spell on the bench and get that boy’s hunger and focus back, because we all miss Joe Aribo.