Rangers manager has praised Joe Aribo’s for picking himself back up after struggling for form in recent weeks. The 23-year-old joined Rangers from Charlton in the summer and settled in quickly. He was impressive for the Gers in the Europa League qualifiers, scoring three goals as Rangers qualified for the group stages.
His brilliant performances saw him earn a call-up to the Super Eagles where he has now become a regular. However, following a brilliant start to the season, Aribo’s form dipped midway, and that got Gerrard thinking.
But the former Liverpool man has now found a solution to the Nigerian international’s struggles and has praised him for turning his form around.
Gerrard revealed Aribo is benefitting from some time off and change in tactics. The 23-year-old was given a break to go and see his family in London, while he was also given more freedom to move forward.
Speaking to Daily Record, Gerrard said it is important for Aribo to have some time off with his family because he has not been with them since he made the move from Charlton.
“When we recruited him from Charlton, he was a central number 10, playing with his back to goal and with a licence to break the rules.
“Now he’s playing in a similar system for us, although more from the right side, and we want him to break the rules and have more freedom and show the real Joe Aribo from a more forward position.
“I’m sure this season has been an education for him and it is difficult for these young lads moving away from their families for the first time.
“Joe came in and was really strong and it was only normal to have a little bit of a dip and that is when we were there to give him help and support.
“It’s important I give him enough time to get back and see his family and make sure he’s happy off the pitch because we will only feel the benefits in terms of his form on it.”
Rangers are currently five points behind Celtic but Steven Gerrard’s men have a game in hand.
