Europa: Ryan Jack out, Aribo, Balogun in for Rangers

Steven Gerrard has confirmed Ryan Jack will miss Rangers’ Europa League last-16 second-leg tie against Slavia Prague, despite him being named in Scotland’s World Cup qualifying squad on Tuesday.

Steve Clarke announced a 26-man Scotland squad for a hectic week-long schedule which begins with a Group F game at home to Austria on March 25 before facing Israel in Tel Aviv three days later.

They then conclude their March fixtures with a game against the Faroe Islands at Hampden Park on March 31, with all three games live on Sky Sports.

However, Jack hasn’t played for Rangers since picking up a calf injury against Dundee United on February 21, with Gerrard not only confirming he won’t be fit to face the Czech side but that he had already spoken to his Scottish counterpart about the player.

“I had a chat with Steve Clarke and obviously that will remain private,” Steven Gerrard said

“We’ve been in touch over Ryan (Jack) and a few other players for some time now but I’m not going to divulge what gets said in the conversation. I don’t think that’s fair or respectful.

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Meanwhile Nigerian duo Joe  Aribo and Leon Balogun will be hoping to be in their super form as they file out against Slavia Prague on Thursday.

Rangers go into the tie on a comfortable note with the first leg ending 1-1.  Still basking in the euphoria of their recent league title win, Aribo and his teammates will be eyeing a clinical finish to advance into the next round.