Rangers are dealing with a centre-back crisis as Connor Goldson and Ben Davies join a worrying injury list.
Already, manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has John Souttar and Filip Helander out injured long-term and won't have been enamoured by new blows. Goldson left Ibrox in crutches at the end of their harrowing 7-1 Champions League loss against Liverpool after being subbed off in the first half and faces months out with a suspected thigh muscle tear according to reports.
Ben Davies meanwhile has been working his way back up to full fitness following his summer transfer from Liverpool and has now suffered a fresh knock after starting against his old club. Its' reported that he felt felt muscle tightness but didn't want to come off against Jurgen Klopp's men, and with a tricky Premiership trip to Motherwell coming this Saturday, the signs look ominous in terms of options. Glasgow Live Sport picks out five players who could go into the centre of Rangers' defence.
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Leon King
The academy graduate is having to come of age fast and could be their only fit CB in Lanarkshire. A shoo-in to start if fit amid other worries.
James Sands
Naturally a midfielder, Sands started the season in central defence alongside Goldson. His return to the XI could beckon.
John Lundstram
The battler sometimes drops into the middle of a three-man defence when that formation is played, so is a potential Plan B. Albeit it'd be a major adjustment.
Connor Allan
An 18-year-old centre-back who has been a strong performer in the Lowland League 'B' team and recently signed a new deal until 2025. Still developing but maybe one for the deep end if needed.
Ryan Jack
The defensive midfielder is listed as having played centre-back in the Premier Sports Cup against Queen of the South. Certainly has the experienced nous to fill in temporarily.
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