It wasn't so long ago that Nikola Katic was one of the most valuable defenders in Scotland.
His run in the Rangers team before the pandemic took hold was far from flawless, but his calm, commanding presence had earned the trust of Steven Gerrard.
A big money move to the Premier League was being mooted for the Croatian, who, having just turned 23, appeared to have the world at his feet.
When you're out of sight and out of mind, however, football moves on quickly.
A year on the sidelines later and Katic now has work to do if he is to play any part in Rangers' future.
Without him, Gerrard 's side have evolved into a fearsome defensive unit.
They conceded just 13 goals on their way to winning the Premiership title last term, with vice-captain Conor Goldson an immovable presence at the heart of the back four.
He has two reliable partners in Filip Helander and Leon Balogun, while Jack Simpson looks a steady addition.
That's before we get to the prospective incomings, with Gerrard and co believed to be showing interest in Vitesse defender Danilho Doekhi.
Fans are undoubtedly keen to see Katic back in the running, and his pending return from injury adds to the already formidable depth available in the Rangers defence.
But the question does need to be asked: where does he fit in?
Rumours are abound on social media that he could be heading out on loan this season, and while it's worth noting there is no substance to those as yet, they do make some sense.
A temporary move away, whether it's to another club in the Scottish Premiership, south of the border, or back home to his native Croatia, could help him find his feet again away from the Ibrox glare.
Still only 24, he has four years on Goldson and Helander, and he could return and re-establish himself as the long-term heart of the Rangers defence.
Speaking earlier this month, however, Katic asserted his determination to force his way back into Gerrard's plans. And the boss, who was far from impressed with what he saw in their first pre-season friendly against Tranmere, won't be making any hasty decisions until he gets a good look at him in pre-season.
“I’m desperate, honestly," Katic said in June. "I lost so much with my injury so I am desperate to play and so excited.
“I’m giving 24 hours a day to be as ready to help the team and prove to the manager and fans how ready I am.
“It’s been such a long time out of the team and struggling with a tough injury but I am happy that’s behind me and I’m ready to go with the team again."
Rangers will give Katic every chance to win back his starting spot. But after so long on the sidelines, and with so many players ahead of him in the pecking order, it will be an uphill battle if he is to re-establish himself this season.
Will he welcome the fight? Or will he take another route as he looks to get back to playing regular football?
Pre-season will shape his immediate future either way, but whatever happens, Rangers will just be relieved to see him out of the physio room and back onto the football pitch.
