Aaron Ramsey: This is ‘concerning’ and ‘the last thing Rangers want’ – pundit
The January capture of Rangers star Aaron Ramsey was a “big risk” and his current fitness levels are “far from ideal”, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 31-year-old can “make the difference” for the Ibrox club when fit.
Ramsey has managed just 94 minutes of action since joining Rangers in a deadline day loan deal from Juventus last month.
The midfielder has missed the Gers’ last two matches with a “minor knock”.
As per Rangers Review (25 February), manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst revealed Ramsey has returned to training following his injury layoff.
Whelan insisted the Welshman’s fitness will be a “big concern” with big prizes still “on the line” this season.
“It is a big concern and it has been throughout his time at Juventus,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“We’ve seen the best of him in a Wales shirt, but never really during his time at Juve.
“It was a big signing, especially in January – but also a big risk.
“Knowing that he comes with these sorts of injuries as they did, for him to get one straight away – it’s the last thing Rangers want.
“Coming into this back end of the season now, Premiership title on the line, Europa League progression on the line – it’s far from ideal.
“They need that experience, and he could make the difference. You just hope he can ramp up this recovery quickly now he’s returned to the training pitch.”
Rangers trail Celtic by three points atop the Scottish Premiership.
The Ibrox club also face a two-legged tie against Red Star Belgrade in the Europa League Round of 16.
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