Rangers have been dealt a blow this week after it was revealed that Lyall Cameron has suffered a fresh injury setback with a calf knock ruling him out of upcoming pre-season action. While the severity is not thought to be long term there is no question this is a frustrating development for both the player and Russell Martin. The manager had been looking forward to working closely with the young midfielder over the next few weeks as he continues to shape his squad ahead of the new campaign.
The injury itself is said to have occurred during light training but as always with calf strains Rangers are understandably taking no chances. Cameron had only just been linked with more prominent involvement after impressing many within the Ibrox backroom team during early sessions under Martin. His energy and composure on the ball had marked him out as a player who could surprise a few this season if given the opportunity.
It comes at a time when Rangers are already monitoring several injury situations including longer term concerns over John Souttar and shorter term niggles for a couple of returning loanees. Cameron’s absence might not derail plans completely but it certainly limits options in the middle of the park during a crucial bedding in period for the squad.
Russell Martin will now need to look at alternatives for the midfield slots with a particular focus on balancing youth and experience. Cameron’s work rate and tactical understanding had been seen as a boost to the group and his injury removes an in-house option at a time when the club is weighing up further transfer additions. The former Dundee man had been viewed as someone who could play a supporting role while learning from the more established names around him.
An external update has also confirmed his absence from at least the first two fixtures in the pre-season schedule. Reports suggest the injury may only sideline him for a fortnight or so but these knocks can be unpredictable and calf issues especially tend to require patience. Rangers will be hoping that is the extent of it and that Cameron can return swiftly to stake his claim. For now though it is a minor but unwanted blow as pre-season plans gather pace.