Derek McInnes decides Bojan Miovski’s Rangers role after striker injury blow

Bojan Miovski is reportedly set to remain third in Rangers’ striker pecking order despite the extended absences of Lawrence Shankland and Youssef Chermiti.

According to Football Insider, the North Macedonian forward is currently behind Kevin Kelsy and Ryan Naderi in Derek McInnes’ plans, meaning Miovski could still find regular starts difficult to secure despite Rangers’ lack of senior attacking options.

Miovski was the match-winner against St Mirren recently, scoring a dramatic stoppage-time goal that secured three points for Rangers and helped keep them within five points of Celtic after six league matches.

However, that moment has not apparently changed his position in the squad.

The former Aberdeen striker struggled for consistent opportunities last season and appears likely to face another battle for playing time this campaign. With Shankland and Chermiti both facing lengthy spells out, though, Miovski should have more chances to make an impact.

His situation could become even more challenging once the injured pair return, unless he can take advantage of his opportunities and force his way further into McInnes’ plans with his performances and goals.

Miovski was only introduced for the final few minutes of Rangers’ recent Scottish League Cup quarter-final victory over Celtic, with the Gers already 3-0 ahead when he came on.

Another Old Firm meeting awaits at Parkhead this weekend, and Miovski could again have to begin the match among the substitutes.

McInnes has nevertheless offered encouragement to the striker and believes the current injury situation gives him an important opportunity to make his mark.

“Such is the way things change in football, with Youssef and Lawrence’s long-term injury then having Bojan in the building is a godsend for me and something he should take a lot of encouragement from now between now and the end of the season,” McInnes said.

“Hopefully he can go and have a big impact for us.”

For Miovski, the message is clear: opportunities are likely to come his way, but he will need to make the most of them if he wants to change his position in the Rangers pecking order.