Steven Gerrard looks set to miss Rangers' Europa League play-off second leg against Alashkert tomorrow evening amid a Covid-19 outbreak within the squad.
The former Liverpool midfielder was not in attendance as the Gers boarded their flight to Western Asia from Glasgow Airport today, with it unknown at this stage as to whether or not he will be back in the dugout for Sunday's Old Firm derby with Celtic at Ibrox Stadium.
Rangers take on their Armenian opponents on Thursday with a place in the Europa League at stake, but are now facing major complications ahead of the tie.
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According to the Daily Record, James Tavernier, Calvin Bassey, Scott Wright and Ryan Kent were also absent along with first and second choice goalkeepers Allan McGregor and Jon McLaughlin.
Former Red and now Rangers assistant manager Gary McAllister is expected to take temporary charge of the team.
It is has not been disclosed who has tested positive from within the squad and staff - but the Daily Record reports that the club has been "rocked by the number who have to self isolate".
Commenting on the situation, a Rangers club statement said last night: "Rangers can confirm that during our testing schedule, we have received positive COVID-19 tests.
"Those identified as positive are now in self isolation along with ‘close contacts’.
"We have followed best practice in our procedures and protocols. From the outset of the pandemic, Rangers has worked closely with the Scottish Government and Scottish football to ensure the health of our staff is protected at all times.
"We will continue to do so."
Rangers hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg of the tie, thanks to an Alfredo Morelos strike.
