Rangers manager Philippe Clement has been dealt another significant injury blow ahead of this weekend's Scottish Premiership encounter with Hearts, confirming midfielder Nicolas Raskin will play no part in the Tynecastle showdown.
The Belgian international, who has been a key figure in Clement's midfield plans, joins a growing list of absentees that threatens to disrupt Rangers' title charge during the critical festive period.
Clement revealed the extent of the setback during his pre-match press conference, stating: "Nicolas Raskin is not available for the weekend. He has a small injury, so we need to see how long that takes."
The timing couldn't be worse for the Light Blues, who are already navigating through a congested fixture schedule without several first-team regulars. Raskin's absence further depletes Clement's options in the engine room, where the manager has relied on the 22-year-old's energy and technical ability.
This development compounds an already challenging situation following the recent injury to Spanish midfielder José Cifuentes, who was forced off during the midweek victory over St Johnstone. The double midfield blow leaves Clement with limited alternatives as Rangers prepare for one of their toughest away fixtures of the season.
Hearts, under the management of Steven Naismith, have proven particularly formidable at Tynecastle this season, making Raskin's absence all the more significant. The former Standard Liege man's tenacity and ball-winning capabilities would have been crucial in breaking up Hearts' attacks and launching counter-offensives.
Clement now faces serious selection dilemmas as he attempts to maintain Rangers' momentum in the title race. The Belgian tactician may need to deploy alternative solutions or adjust his tactical approach to compensate for the missing midfield dynamism.
With the winter transfer window approaching, these injury concerns might accelerate Rangers' plans to strengthen their squad depth, particularly in central areas where the physical demands of Scottish football are taking their toll.
Rangers supporters will anxiously await further updates on Raskin's recovery timeline, hoping the "small injury" doesn't develop into another prolonged absence for one of their most promising talents.
