Rangers Boss Gerrard Reveals The Real Reason Aribo Wasn't In Squad Vs Benfica

Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has explained why Joe Aribo wasn't in the matchday squad for his side's 2-2 draw with Benfica in the Europa League on Thursday.

Despite leading 2-0 with 21 minutes left on the clock, The Light Blues couldn't make the most of it and had to settle for a draw at the Ibrox Stadium.

While Leon Balogun and Calvin Ughelumba were named in the squad, with the former going the full ninety, Joe Aribo was conspicuously missing.

Gerrard revealed that the left-footed midfielder missed the game through illness and stressed that his absence from the squad wasn't COVID-related.

"He was unwell. He had a stomach complaint last night. The plan was for Joe to be involved, he's had a stomach complaint so he'll be getting some checks and assessing him, hopefully he will be available for the weekend.," Gerrard told reporters post-match.

“It’s important to say it is not Covid-related. He was negative on his test, before people start putting two and two together".

Aribo, 24, has missed four games played by Rangers in Europe this season due to fitness issues but was involved in the last three before the visit of Benfica.

Though Rangers lead the way in Group D with 8 points, qualification is not yet done for the Scottish Premiership side but they would make it to the last 32 next week if they avoid defeat at home to Standard Liege.

Igho Kingsley