The Gers have been sensational at times and have maintained their unbeaten start to the Scottish top-flight season, with their Nigerian midfielder playing crucial roles in that excellent run
Nigeria International Joe Aribo has drawn plaudits from Rangers manager Steven Gerrard after the former Charlton Athletic star inspired the league leaders to another away victory at Saint Johnstone in midweek.
Former Liverpool hero Gerrard watched from the sidelines as Aribo dominated the game from the centre of the pack and then crowned his delightful performance with an excellent assist for the Gers’ second goal.
The Super Eagles star spotted Glen Kamara’s run in the 31st minute of the encounter and delivered the perfect pass, which the Finnish international finished with aplomb into the bottom corner.
Aribo’s display has now drawn plaudits from his manager, who is convinced that the Nigerian star is close to his best after recovering from injury and illness.
“I thought Aribo really flexed his muscles and showed he’s back. He’s had a real tough start to the season with a big injury – probably the first of his career – and then a bit of an illness which held him back,” Gerrard told the club website.
“He’s gone through the gears in the last three or four weeks, and he looks close to being back to his best, which is really pleasing.
“The through ball, the weight, to see it with the vision. Normally Glen Kamara tries to check back and pass that, but he wiped his nose and finished it away.
“I’m pleased for Glen because he could have felt sorry for himself after the weekend, but I thought he was outstanding all night.”
Rangers have not lost any of the first 19 league games of the season, with Steven Gerrard’s men winning 17 and drawing the other two.
The Gers have since established a 16 point gap on second-placed Celtic, although the champions have played three fewer games.
Aribo has featured in 12 of those matches, scoring four goals with no Rangers midfielder netting more.
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