Steven Gerrard has been handed a boost at Rangers, with influential midfielder Ryan Jack close to a return from injury, which would be a huge positive for the Ibrox side.

What's the word?

Jack has been sidelined since February with a calf injury that was initially expected to keep him out for a few weeks, but it ultimately ended his season and led to him missing the European Championships with Scotland.

After a number of surgeries and a long break, it seems as if the former Aberdeen man is finally closing in on a return, as Gerrard confirmed ahead of the weekend's game against Livingston that:

"We still have Ryan Jack to return, he has one more appointment in a few weeks to get the green light to fully return."

Whilst the 29-year-old is unlikely to feature against Malmo on Tuesday evening, he could feasibly make his return in a few weeks time, which is undoubtedly a boost for the Gers.

A huge boost for Gerrard?

Last season saw the midfielder make 19 appearances in the Scottish Premiership, contributing two goals and one assist, which helped him average an impressive 7.03 rating from WhoScored.

Jack's performances in midfield were a key factor in Rangers' incredible defensive record last season and Gerrard will undoubtedly be keen to have him back fit now that the 2021/22 campaign has begun.

With Glen Kamara set to miss the next three European games through suspension, it would be ideal timing if Jack can make his return during the time that his Finnish teammate is out, otherwise, Gerrard might be a little low on defensive-midfield options.

The Rangers manager is clearly a big fan of the 29-year-old midfielder, as he sang his praises last season, saying:

“When we came in we inherited a good player, without a doubt. Aberdeen had done a really good job with Ryan in terms of his development and giving him the opportunity to play at the top level. He obviously became a leader.

“So there was coaching prior to us that deserves a lot of credit in Ryan’s development. We obviously saw a winner when we came in."

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Therefore, it is clearly a huge boost for Gerrard that he will have such an influential part of his side back fit in the near future, and Rangers fans will be hoping that he can play a big part this season as they look to retain their Premiership title.

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