Speaking to Football Insider, BBC Radio Leeds pundit Noel Whelan has been left thrilled by an injury update on Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack.
The Lowdown: Jack closing in...
There have been numerous timeframes mentioned when it comes to the return of Scotland international as manager Steven Gerrard waits cautiously for his anticipated return to the fold.
The 29-year-old has been out of action since the end of last season, missing out on his country's Euro 2020 campaign, and it is believed that he is now back in light training (Jordan Campbell, The Athletic).
Ibrox sources have also told Football Insider that the Gers ace is 'closing in' on a return for Rangers as he looks to bolster his training load.
The Latest: Whelan reacts...
Reacting to the latter claim, Whelan has been left thrilled by the update and insists that it is 'massive news for Rangers'.
"He is an integral player in that Rangers midfield,” the former Leeds United striker told Football Insider.
“It’s massive news for Rangers and Steven Gerrard that he is closing in on a comeback. Getting him back on the pitch after so long will be like a new signing.
“You can see him much better Rangers would be with him, including on Thursday night against Lyon when his energy and leadership were sorely missed.
“Steven knows that Ryan Jack is irreplaceable as he is the heartbeat of the team.
“Yes, Rangers won the league without him and have won plenty of matches when he hasn’t played. But, when the team is struggling or needs dragging out of a hole, Ryan Jack is the player you want in the team.”
The Verdict: Big boost for Gerrard...
As Whelan has said, the return of Jack will come as a welcome boost for Gerrard as someone who can seriously strengthen his options in midfield.
A tidy midfielder, only Glen Kamara (90.7%) averaged a higher pass accuracy than the Scotland international (89.9%) out of any Gers player with more than 12 Premiership appearances last season (WhoScored).
That degree of composure will be needed as the Light Blues aim to fend off arch-rivals Celtic and retain their top-flight crown
In other news: 'One of the best'...BBC pundit wowed as Gers eye move for 'big game' forward, find out more here.