'Cyriel was here' – Rangers boss explains Dessers' omission from squad against Club Brugge

Rangers manager Russell Martin has explained why Cyriel Dessers was omitted from the squad for Sunday afternoon's friendly against Club Brugge at Ibrox Stadium.

Ahead of kickoff, the Nigeria international was seen engaging with supporters at Ibrox, posing for photos and signing autographs for Rangers fans.

Dessers has been linked with a departure from Rangers in the summer transfer window, with Greek giants AEK Athens and Feyenoord credited with an interest in the 2024-25 Scottish Premiership top scorer.

Speaking after the friendly, Russell provided clarity on the absence of Dessers from the squad that faced Club Brugge, explaining that the Nigerian was present but not fit to play.

Another Rangers player linked with an exit, Hamza Igamane has yet to report for pre-season training due to visa complications. 

"Cyriel was here. He's had a bit of an ankle problem but he was here watching," Russell was quoted as saying by The BBC.

With a large squad at his disposal, the Rangers boss hinted at possible outgoings but reiterated his desire to retain key players.

"The squad is very big, there'll be people move on but you want to keep your best players. I'm looking forward to working with both."

Signed from Italian outfit Cremonese in the summer of 2023, Dessers has two years left on his Rangers contract.

The Super Eagles striker has 51 goals and 16 assists in 109 all-competition appearances since transferring to the Glasgow club. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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