Rangers English defender Dujon Sterling is closing in on a long-awaited return to first-team action, nearly six months after suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury during the UEFA Europa League quarter-final first leg against Athletic Club at Ibrox last season.
In a powerful update shared via LinkedIn, Sterling’s agent Mark Gottlieb confirmed the 25-year-old is nearing full reintegration into the squad after an intensive recovery period that tested his physical resilience and mental strength.
He said: “Just under six months ago in mid-April, Dujon Sterling damaged his Achilles tendon in the last few minutes of the Europa League Quarter Final first leg game against Athletic Club Bilbao at Ibrox in front of 50,000 fans
“His performance at right-centre half in a three that night had been superb.”
Describing the injury as a “freak accident”, Gottlieb admitted it was a “huge disappointment for Rangers and its fans” and “a massive mental blow” for the player and those around him.
Gottlieb praised Rangers medical department and Sterling’s relentless professionalism throughout recovery, confirming he is now at the final stage of his return-to-play programme: “Following first class medical treatment and support from the club coupled with relentless determination by Dujon, he is now very close to joining the squad again.”
Sterling’s comeback could prove crucial for Rangers, particularly given the club’s left-back situation.
Having sold Jefte, Robbie Fraser and Ridvan Yilmaz this summer, Rangers now only have 19-year-old Brentford loanee Jayden Meghoma as a recognised left-back at first-team level. Sterling’s versatility across both full-back positions and inverting into midfield makes him an important tactical asset ahead of the new manager’s arrival, expected to be Kevin Muscat.
Sterling’s recovery was framed not just as a physical return but a test of emotional resilience. “Rehab tests players’ resilience and mental strength,” Gottlieb said. “Dujon has always been a warrior and a black belt in a winners mentality. He never ever gives up.”
In a message aimed at showcasing character over circumstance, he concluded: “That, ladies and gents, is the difference between winners and losers. Not just in Football but in life too.”
With Rangers defensive depth already under scrutiny and the new head coach expected to arrive in the coming weeks, Sterling’s imminent return could not be better timed. If fully fit, he is expected to challenge immediately for a starting place at either left back, or across the faltering backline or a struggling midfield contingent at Ibrox.