Rangers supporters will ‘be hoping’ that star midfielder Aaron Ramsey is able to play his part in the club’s title defence in what remains of the season, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 31-year-old arrived at Ibrox on a six-month loan deal from Serie A giants Juventus during the January transfer window but is yet to start a Scottish Premiership game for his new side.

What is the latest news involving Ramsey?

There was much fanfare when Ramsey’s arrival was announced, with Gers legend Ally McCoist even likening the shock transfer to Paul Gascoigne’s 1995 switch.

However, the 71-cap Wales international is yet to make his mark with the reigning SPFL champions, having racked up just 94 minutes worth of action across all competitions to date.

Cameo appearances off the bench against Hearts and Hibernian were followed up by Ramsey’s only start in the win over Annan Athletic before he had to settle for a minor substitute’s role in the victory over Borussia Dortmund.

But what was described as a ‘minor knock’ ruled the experienced star out of Rangers’ next four encounters, including disappointing draws against Dundee United and Motherwell.

Those results in Ramsey’s enforced absence saw Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s charges slip three points behind Celtic at the top of the table, losing vital ground in the title race.

What has O’Rourke said about Ramsey?

Rangers received a significant boost over the weekend, though, when Ramsey was named in Van Bronckhorst’s matchday squad against Aberdeen for the first time since 17 February.

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And O’Rourke reckons the club’s fanbase will be eager for the engine room operator to remain injury free and have a say in where the title ends up come May.

He told GiveMeSport: “So, for Rangers fans, they'll be hoping he can get fit and be ready and available for Giovanni van Bronckhorst, especially coming into the closing end of the season when somebody with Ramsey's X-Factor and experience could be vital in where the destiny of the title does end up.”

Can Rangers retain the title?

Rangers ended a 10-year wait for a top-flight title last term, cruising to victory by going unbeaten, finishing a whole 25 points ahead of bitter rivals Celtic.

Nevertheless, the sudden departer of former manager Steven Gerrard back in November has allowed the Hoops to take control of proceedings in the current campaign.

Ange Postecoglou’s charges are sitting three points clear of Rangers at this moment in time, but everything could still hinge on the two remaining Old Firm derbies between now and the end of the season.