Rangers eye “stunning” free agent amid fresh Derek McInnes injury concern

Rangers have no immediate plans to add another midfielder to Derek McInnes’ squad, but a growing injury list could force the club to reconsider a familiar face.

Former Ibrox midfielder Ryan Jack is currently training at Rangers’ Auchenhowie base after becoming a free agent this summer, and his situation could become increasingly relevant if McInnes suffers another midfield injury setback.

The 34-year-old has been without a club since leaving Turkish second-tier outfit Esenler Erokspor. Rather than allowing his fitness to drop while searching for his next opportunity, Jack has been working with Rangers’ medical and performance staff.

Jack recently explained that his previous injury issue is largely behind him and that he is using the time between clubs to maintain his conditioning.

For now, however, a return to the Rangers squad is not being actively pursued.

Rangers have already been hit by injuries

McInnes’ attacking options have already taken a significant hit, with Youssef Chermiti and Lawrence Shankland both unavailable.

The midfield has also lost some depth following Connor Barron’s late loan move to Middlesbrough, leaving the manager with less room for manoeuvre should further injuries occur.

According to reports, Rangers would only consider making an approach to Jack if the midfield begins experiencing similar problems.

That would provide McInnes with an experienced option who already knows the club, the demands of playing at Ibrox and the expectations surrounding Rangers.

Ryan Jack remains highly regarded at Ibrox

Jack spent seven seasons with Rangers after arriving from Aberdeen and made 210 appearances for the club.

He was part of Steven Gerrard’s title-winning side in the 2020/21 campaign and developed a reputation for his professionalism and commitment during his time in Glasgow.

Gerrard was particularly impressed by Jack’s approach and once described one of his performances as “stunning”, while highlighting the midfielder’s hunger to succeed and willingness to follow tactical instructions.

Those qualities remain relevant to Rangers if McInnes eventually needs additional cover.

Jack is already familiar with the club’s surroundings and is training at Auchenhowie, meaning he would not necessarily require the same settling-in period as a new signing.

McInnes has a decision to make if injuries worsen

Rangers’ recent turnaround has significantly changed the atmosphere around McInnes.

After European disappointment and a difficult domestic opening, consecutive Old Firm victories have transformed the mood around the club and increased expectations for the season ahead.

Former Rangers midfielder Jack has highlighted just how quickly the narrative changed following those two victories over Celtic.

However, maintaining that momentum could become more difficult if injuries continue to reduce McInnes’ options.

For now, Ryan Jack remains a free agent training with Rangers rather than a confirmed transfer target. But should the midfield injury situation deteriorate, his existing relationship with the club and experience at Ibrox could make him a name worth considering.