Michael Beale reveals Antonio Colak's Rangers return date with striker in line to face Celtic
The striker won't feature against Ross County but should be back for the following game while Alfredo Morelos has played through the pain barrier.
Antonio Colak should be back fit for Rangers’ Premiership clash with Motherwell, putting him in contention to face Celtic on January 2.
The Gers’ top scorer has been sidelined with a calf strain and missed Michael Beale’s first two matches in charge as the Light Blues came from behind in both, beating Hibs 3-2 at Ibrox before Tuesday night’s stunning stoppage time comeback away to Aberdeen to win by the same scoreline on a dramatic night in the north east.
With Colak injured, Alfredo Morelos led the line and netted the winner against the Hibees. He wasn't on target at Pittodrie, but is set to continue up top when Rangers make the long journey north to take on Ross County on Friday night. The meeting with the Staggies will come too soon for Colak, but Beale expects him to be available for Motherwell’s trip to Ibrox between Christmas and New Year.
Then comes the big one and if all goes to plan, then Beale is facing a selection dilemma ahead of the biggest match of his short Rangers reign. Ange Postecoglou will take his Celtic team across the city for a New Year blockbuster. Regardless of results, Celtic will arrive as league leaders, although their rivals will hope someone can do them a favour over the festive period and give them the opportunity to cut the current nine point gap.
And if Colak comes through training and the Motherwell game, then Beale will have to weigh up whether he, Morelos or both play against the Hoops. He also revealed that Morelos has been playing with an injury.
That means Colak's return will be timely, as will Kemar Roofe’s, who should be back in the mix. The Jamaican hasn’t been seen since a 1-1 draw with Livingston in October after suffering a knee injury.
Beale said: “Alfredo has played through the pain barrier and has been playing through a minor injury. Colak won't be ready tomorrow with his calf problem, he will hopefully be back for 28th along with Roofe.”
The Rangers boss also confirmed that a number of changes will be made to the team after the late heroics at Pittodrie managed to avoid a disastrous loss. He added: “There will be five changes tomorrow. I think Goldson will be able to feature again, Ben (Davies) is now available to play.”
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