Rangers Defender Kasanwirjo Faces Extended Absence Due to Injury

Rangers manager Philippe Clement has confirmed that defender Neraysho Kasanwirjo sustained a “longer-term injury” while on international duty and may require surgery. Kasanwirjo has featured in nine of his appearances for Rangers as a substitute. The player, on loan from Feyenoord, had to leave the field during the Netherlands Under-21s’ 1-1 draw against England on Monday, having injured his knee. Kasanwirjo has served as a versatile defensive option for Clement at Rangers, having played 12 times this season. Clement, the Belgian manager, characterized the loss of the Dutch player as a “big blow.” The Rangers manager stated, “He’s going to have an appointment with the surgeon. It’s for sure a longer-term injury and now it’s about seeing what the precise problem is.” Clement further added, “We’re talking with Feyenoord about where to have the surgery and the rehab. It’s hard. He was adapting really well to the club and the mentality here.” On a more positive note for Rangers, left-back Ridvan Yilmaz is now fit for selection and will be included in the squad for Saturday’s match against Dundee United, having been unavailable since August. Additionally, winger Oscar Cortes is set to rejoin training sessions next week. Winger Rabbi Matondo participated in a friendly game during the international break but continues to experience a “small problem,” meaning he will not be available for the upcoming weekend’s fixture. In the Scottish Premiership, Rangers currently trail Celtic and Aberdeen by a margin of nine points.