Rangers are sweating on the fitness of Ben Godfrey after the on-loan Atalanta defender limped off during Friday’s 1-1 Premiership opener against Dundee United. The club will scan his injury on Monday, with fears he could miss the Europa League qualifier against Jagiellonia Bialystok on Thursday.
What happened to Ben Godfrey?
Godfrey was forced off in the first half of Rangers’ season opener at Tannadice, leaving Derek McInnes with a defensive headache. The 27-year-old centre-back, signed on loan from Atalanta, is now a major doubt for the trip to Poland. Rangers finished last season 2nd in the Premiership with 69 points (19W-12D-2L) and a +35 goal difference, but dropped points on opening night in Tayside.
Why does this injury matter for Rangers?
With John Souttar set to leave Ibrox and Olwethu Makhanya facing visa issues, McInnes could be left with only Emmanuel Fernandez as a recognised centre-back. Dujon Sterling or Ross McCrorie may need to fill in, complicating preparations for a vital European tie. The Gers boss has already stated he wants two more defenders before the transfer window closes.
What comes next for Rangers?
If Godfrey’s scan reveals a serious issue, he could face weeks out, forcing McInnes to reshuffle his backline. Rangers are also pursuing wide players, with Brighton’s Amario Cozier-Duberry and Coventry’s Jahnoa Markelo on their radar. Meanwhile, the club continues to offload surplus players, including Nico Raskin, who may attract bids after his World Cup performances.
