Rangers have faced persistent injury troubles, forcing several key players to watch from the stands as their team fell to Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup Final. The club has been battling an alarming injury record for nearly three years, with recurring setbacks at their Auchenhowie training base.
However, there is hope on the horizon. As Rangers prepare for a demanding festive schedule, the squad is set to be bolstered by the imminent returns of two injury-hit stars. If all goes well, both players should be match-fit in time for the crucial Ibrox clash against Celtic in just over two weeks.
Oscar Cortes Nears Rangers Comeback
Oscar Cortes, who joined Rangers last January, has endured a challenging stint plagued by injuries. The Colombian winger initially impressed after arriving on loan from French side RC Lens but suffered a significant injury at Rugby Park in March. Despite this, Rangers extended his loan in the summer, committing to a £4m permanent deal at the end of the season.
Unfortunately, Cortes endured further setbacks, including an injury on the opening day against Hearts, which marked the start of three successive problems. These issues have limited his impact this campaign, but that may soon change.
Now back in full training, the 21-year-old is expected to feature in Rangers’ squad for their Scottish Premiership match against Dundee this weekend. Cortes has not played since coming off the bench in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Dundee in September.
Rabbi Matondo Set to Rejoin Squad
Welsh international Rabbi Matondo is also closing in on a return. The 24-year-old winger, who joined Rangers for £2.5m from Schalke 04 in 2022, has had a frustrating Ibrox career disrupted by recurring injuries. Despite showing flashes of his potential, consistency has eluded him during his time at the club.
Rangers reportedly rejected loan offers for Matondo from English Championship clubs late in the summer transfer window. However, he soon suffered an injury during the 3-0 Premiership defeat to Celtic on September 1.
Now back in full training, Matondo is slightly behind Cortes in terms of readiness but is expected to feature in the coming weeks. His return, alongside Cortes, represents a combined £6.5m boost to Rangers’ attacking options.
Further Injury Updates
Rangers are also awaiting the return of Welsh playmaker Tom Lawrence, who remains on schedule according to manager Philippe Clement. Meanwhile, Scotland international defender John Souttar will be sidelined for several weeks after picking up an injury against Tottenham Hotspur.
