Steven Gerrard ‘concerned’ as Helander becomes latest absentee in defence

Sun 12 September 2021 13:15, UK

Rangers won 2-1 at St. Johnstone yesterday, but it came at a cost.

Steven Gerrard’s side suffered another blow to their defensive line as Filip Helander was stretchered off.

The Swede has been heavily relied upon already by Gerrard with season.

He’s already completed five sets of 90 minutes this season and he bagged his first goal of the season when he netted the winner against Celtic ().

He only managed 77 minutes on Saturday, though, before being replaced by Jack Simpson owing to injury.

After the game, Gerrard addressed the media and inevitably faced questions about his options in defence ().

“I’m concerned.”

“He’s (Helander) with the doctors now getting assessed, he’s got ice on it and he’s bandaged up.”

“It doesn’t look good but until we scan it and assess it in 24-48 hours time we’re not too sure.”

“Fingers crossed he can pull through but we’ve got other defenders who will have to step up if he’s missing for the short, medium or long term.”

It also doesn’t help that Connor Goldson has been forced to self-isolate.

It’s unclear whether he’ll be back in time for Lyon but, again, Gerrard wasn’t optimistic.

“I’m hoping he’s going to be available we’ll have to wait and see.”

“He’ll have to speak to the doctors. I’m not sure on the exact time frame and what we’re looking at.”

“We’re hoping to have Connor available.”

If neither Goldson or Helander are available against Lyon then Gerrard will have a problem.

Leon Balogun will step in and play but Jack Simspon wasn’t included in the Gers’ European squad list.

Hopefully, though, it won’t come down to that and both Helander and Goldson will be able to step up and play.

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