Covid-hit Rangers still more than good enough to dispose of Alashkert - Derek Clark

Images of the squad checking into Glasgow Airport sparked alarm following yesterday’s announcement that there have been positive Covid-19 tests and players self-isolating.

Steven Gerrard was notably absent as were goalkeepers Allan McGregor and Jon McLaughlin, skipper James Tavernier, Calvin Bassey, Scott Wright, Ryan Kent and Fashion Sakala with Kemar Roofe and John Lundstram already missing through suspension.

It’s not yet known who has officially tested positive for the virus and who the close contacts are. 

We will find out the details in tonight’s pre-match press conference but such is Rangers' strength in depth that, even with these omissions, the squad is still one that should be able to get the job done without too much fuss.

The main area of concern is understandably the goalkeeping position. Robby McCrorie will take his place between the sticks for his senior debut and what an opportunity for him to shine.

Its no secret he’s highly thought of at Ibrox and there are hopes he can one day be the long term successor to Allan McGregor.

His most recent loan spell at Livingston gave him Scottish Premiership experience and he had to compete for the number one jersey with Max Stryjek.

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Having spoken to Livi goalie coach at the time, Tony Caig, last season was a learning curve for Robby but he showed fantastic qualities befitting of a Rangers keeper.

Tomorrow night is a real platform to show he is the real deal, although that is only if he has anything of note to do.

Alashkert are a poor outfit in comparison to sides Rangers have faced at this stage in recent years. Their expected goal percentage from the first leg at Ibrox was 0.01 which highlights deficiencies in an attacking sense so a goalkeeping crisis isn’t as worrying as it could be.

However, it would be folly for Rangers to treat the Armenians lightly and, in a weird way, the fact so many players are missing may just galvanise the pool who are out in Yerevan.

The possible Rangers side tomorrow night is still one of real quality; McCrorie in goals, Patterson, Goldson, Helander and Barisic across the back, a midfield three of Davis, the returning Glen Kamara and Scott Arfield with a front three consisting of Alfredo Morelos, Joe Aribo and Ianis Hagi.

That is a fine looking XI and one that should dispose of Alashkert quite comfortably.

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Younger supporters may not remember the glory days in the 90s when Walter Smith’s team were often decimated at times, trips to Aberdeen spring to mind when flu ravaged the squad and there were Old Firm games when Colin Scott would pitch up in goals - it’s nothing new to older bears.

The fact that Steven Gerrard hasn’t flown is an interesting one. Fortunately, Gary McAllister and Michael Beale have travelled so should be able to navigate the tie without the manager joining them on the touchline.

Gerrard will be keeping an eye on the game of course but it remains to be seen if he’ll have active involvement in game-time decisions via whatever means available.

We are simply speculating at this stage given we are awaiting official news from the upcoming press conference but, on the face of it, this Covid outbreak shouldn't mean Rangers are heavily diminished competitors on the pitch.

Of course, we wish the very best of health and a speedy recovery to those who are affected. It’s a clear indication this dreadful illness is still prevalent and shows little sign of loosening its grip on the world.

Every football club at some stage has or will be affected by it - it’s slightly unfortunate to have hit Rangers heavily in a week where European qualification is on the line and the first Old Firm of the season looming large.

But given the depth of the squad and the quality that Gerrard has built within it, there's no case to panic.