Rangers centre-back Filip Helander is expected to be out for “at least a few months” with a knee injury, according to manager Steven Gerrard.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference yesterday ahead of the Europa League game against Lyon, Gerrard revealed that the Swedish international had already undergone surgery:
“It happened in the last 24 hours and I’m told he is still probably trying to get himself together after the surgery if you like… In terms of how long he is going to be out for, it’s difficult to put a timeframe on. But he will certainly be missing for at least a few months.”
Helander had to be substituted 15 minutes from the end of the 2-1 win over St Johnstone at the weekend, and it now seems he won’t be available until the Christmas period. Fans on Twitter are very disappointed to hear that the defender will be out for so long:
That’s terrible news.
— John Webster 🏴 (@johnauldwebster) September 15, 2021
Well that sucks.
— Colin Mathie (@madnutter0102) September 15, 2021
Dreadful for the guy, had just been starting games for his country and kept Spain at bay. Our record with knee injuries to key players is so hard to take.
— Gavin Russell (@sirgavrussell) September 15, 2021
Not great but others have a chance to step up
— Millheughman (@millheughman) September 15, 2021
Dreadful news that.
— 🇫🇮 King Kamara 🇫🇮 (@King_Kamara18) September 15, 2021
Oof I was not wanting to hear that
— Stewart Brand (@sbrandmusic) September 15, 2021
That’s a massive loss, especially on European nights. Big Fil’s positional sense was a massive boost to our back line.
— Dave (@RealDavekelly81) September 15, 2021
pic.twitter.com/wTKgYWzs28
— 🃏Rab 🃏 (@robertmcnaught) September 15, 2021
Gutted.
— Why am I called a Hun Bastard? (@rrab2525) September 15, 2021
The Light Blues do have a fair amount of cover at centre-half so, while Helander will be missed, it will be hoped that others can now step up to the plate.
Connor Goldson was absent for the victory on Saturday due to virus protocols but he will be available for the Lyon game. Leon Balogun is likely to keep his place alongside the Englishman, with Jack Simpson providing backup.
