Rangers have faced a tough season, grappling with a high number of injuries that have significantly impacted their performance on the pitch. Amidst the challenges, one player, Abdallah Sima, emerged as a standout performer, showcasing his talent with 10 goals and 2 assists. However, a recent turn of events during Sima’s international duty with Senegal in the African Nations Cup has cast a shadow over the Ibrox faithful.
Abdallah Sima’s journey at Rangers began with a loan move from Brighton at the start of the season. Despite an initial rough start, Sima managed to establish himself as an important player for the team, earning the admiration of the fans and the coaching staff alike.
The Rangers faithful were already apprehensive about Sima’s potential absence due to his commitments with Senegal in the African Nations Cup. Sima was an unused substitute during Senegal’s impressive 3-0 victory over Gambia. However, he was conspicuously absent from the squad that faced Cameroon on January 19th, sparking concerns among the Rangers supporters.
Thigh Injury Ends Sima’s African Nations Cup Journey
The fears of Rangers fans were sadly confirmed as news broke that Abdallah Sima had sustained a thigh injury during international duty. The injury has ruled him out for the remainder of the African Nations Cup, prompting the Ibrox medical team to engage with the Senegalese Football Federation for further assessment.
In a statement released by the Senegalese camp, they referred to Sima’s “long period of unavailability,” intensifying worries among the Rangers faithful. Sima, however, took to social media to express his disappointment and assure fans that he would come back stronger. In his message, Sima said,
It’s with a lot of sadness that I tell you I won’t be able to continue the competition. But my heart and strength will remain with this group who I hope will go after the trophy for our beautiful country because they deserve it.
Abdallah Sima via his Instagram account
Rangers Manager Philippe Clement’s Response
Rangers manager Philippe Clement, when questioned about Sima’s situation, remained cautious and did not delve into the specifics of the injury. He emphasized the importance of waiting for the assessment from the medical staff and expressed his hope that Sima would return as quickly as possible.
It is always dangerous to hear those things when they happen when they are not here.
Rangers Manager, Philippe Clement
I always like to hear my medical staff and what they think about things so Abda is going to come back as fast as possible. I have been in contact with him already. He is going to come back as fast as possible to make a good assessment and to see how long he will be out.
Conclusion
Abdallah Sima’s injury has dealt a blow to Rangers at a time when they can ill afford further setbacks. The Ibrox faithful will be anxiously awaiting updates on the extent of Sima’s injury and his expected return. In the face of adversity, Rangers will need to regroup and continue their campaign with determination and resilience, hoping for a swift recovery for one of their standout players.