Dujon Sterling’s return to competitive action in Rangers colours was one of the few genuinely uplifting moments on a difficult European night in Budapest, and his agent Mark Gottlieb has spoken glowingly about the defender’s resilience after a gruelling seven-month absence.
Sterling made his comeback from the bench in the UEFA Europa League defeat to Ferencvárosi, featuring for 35 minutes as he completed the final stage of his recovery from a serious Achilles injury.
While the result left Rangers European hopes hanging by a thread, Sterling’s presence on the pitch was quietly significant.
Gottlieb described the moment as a deeply personal one, praising both the player’s character and his determination to return stronger.
“Absolutely chuffed to pieces to see client Dujon Sterling back on the pitch last night for Rangers in the Europa League after seven months out recovering from an Achilles injury,” he said.
“Coming off the bench and getting 35 minutes was a positive moment.”
The agent also highlighted the public backing Sterling received from head coach Danny Röhl after the match, with the German noting the defender’s composure, experience and immediate impact.
“As the gaffer said in his post-match press conference, Duj showed his quality and experience and he was happy for him,” Gottlieb added.
Sterling’s journey back has been anything but straightforward. Achilles injuries are among the most mentally and physically demanding setbacks a footballer can face, often requiring long, isolating rehabilitation periods with no guarantees on form or fitness at the end.
For Gottlieb, Sterling’s return speaks volumes about the player’s mindset.
“For professional footballers, adversity and setbacks are part of the modern game,” he said.
“It takes a special mindset to deal with them, beat them and come back stronger.
“Dujon has that mindset.”
The praise did not stop there. Gottlieb painted a picture of a player whose influence extends far beyond technical ability.
“He’s an extraordinary guy and the type of character every manager, team-mate and fan loves – and opposition fear,” he said.
“He doesn’t say much. He just gets on with it.”
That quiet steel is something Rangers have lacked at times this season, particularly during difficult spells.
Sterling’s versatility, aggression and professionalism offer Danny Röhl an experienced option as Rangers enter a crucial run of domestic fixtures.
Gottlieb summed it up with a phrase that perfectly encapsulates Sterling’s approach.
He said: “He doesn’t accept losing as an option. Never.”
For Rangers, Sterling’s return may yet prove one of the most important developments of the winter period – not just in what he brings on the pitch, but in the standards, he sets off it.