Tom Lawrence has suffered a fresh injury setback in a major blow to Rangers and Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
The summer recruit was stepping up his return to full fitness after injuring his knee in a clash with Ross County at the end of August. His rehabilitation was on schedule but the 28-year-old sustained a new issue this week.
Boss Van Bronckhorst has not signalled what the new knock is but has revealed it will keep him out for months rather than weeks and it looks like he won't feature again until AFTER the World Cup. The Wales international had been in top form following his arrival on a free transfer before suffering the injury. He said: "Tom Lawrence's recovery went on schedule but he sustained a new injury this week. We have to wait to see how long he'll be out but it will be longer term. Probably more months than weeks.
Sign up to Glasgow Live newsletter for more headlines straight to your inbox
READ MORE: Liverpool v Rangers on TV: Channel, kick-off time and live stream details for mega Anfield game
"I don't think we'll have him back before the World Cup."
The Dutchman provided the update as his troops get set to face Liverpool in the Champions League.
The Ibrox men have travelled to Anfield for a matchday three Battle of Britain showdown as they look to get off the mark both in the goals and points column this evening.
Liverpool have been struggling for consistency this term and currently sit ninth in the English Premier League standings after a 3-3 draw at home to Brighton.
Van Bronckhorst is taking nothing for granted as he knows the Reds are a top side but he hopes to 'exploit' their backline.
He said: "Of course there's always things to exploit. Any team has those areas that can be exploited.
"We're preparing for a Liverpool team that will be strong tomorrow.
"Form says nothing as they still have fantastic players. We're preparing for the best Liverpool team we can expect."
READ NEXT:
- Rangers boss van Bronckhorst reveals 'far better' than that chat with Cammy Devlin after Hearts red
- Jurgen Klopp's scathing pre-Rangers v Liverpool verdict as confidence low after 'horrendous' moments
- Joe Aribo in post Rangers EPL reality check as five brutal minutes leave him 'bitterly frustrated'
- Gio van Bronckhorst highlights Rangers trio for special praise as attentions turn to Anfield