Ryan Jack’s fitness has been updated by Philippe Clement, who also acknowledged that the Rangers midfielder might have to think about quitting his international career.
On Sunday, November 26, the 31-year-old was substituted late in Scotland’s 2023 final international match against Norway and missed the Light Blues’ 1-1 draw with Aberdeen due to an injury.
Back in March, Jack brushed off any hints that he was nearing retirement from international football, thinking he could still play for his club and his country. However, Clement has since acknowledged that, given his recent injury troubles, he might need to bring this conversation up again.
He stated, “We can think about that,” as reported by the Daily Record on November 27. As a player, I’ve also experienced the feeling that your body is suddenly having more trouble keeping up with both [club and country] because you never get a break.
“We’ll determine in the coming weeks whether or not we really need to have this conversation. However, I would like to discuss those matters with my medical staff first.
We’re not sure how long Ryan will be out yet. I don’t think it will last long—rather, it will only last a short while—but I’m not sure if he will be prepared for Thursday night.
“I anticipate it being on the edge.”
Important choice to make
Jack has established himself as a vital member of Clement’s Rangers squad since his arrival at Ibrox. He and John Lundstram have formed a dependable and consistent midfield partnership that has served as a foundation for the Gers’ attacking talent to grow.
Few would have predicted the 31-year-old to be such a regular under the Belgian’s coaching, but Clement’s hand has been somewhat forced by Nicolas Raskin’s injury woes and Jose Cifuentes’ lacklustre play.
But because of his strong form, which guarantees that he will be included in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squads when fit, he provides a seasoned presence in the middle of midfield. That, regrettably for Rangers, makes it more likely that he will get hurt during the international break.
In order to keep Jack healthy and available for Rangers, Clement may be eager for him to hang up his international boots. However, it will be difficult to persuade a proud Scot to miss out on a significant tournament this summer, particularly since he does not have a contract at Ibrox that extends past the end of the current campaign.
