Cornelius' Training and Injury Status
Rangers head coach Danny Rohl has expressed uncertainty regarding Derek Cornelius' future at the club. The centre-half, currently on loan from Marseille, has been training individually and was released early to join Canada's national team.
The 28-year-old defender, signed by Rangers last summer with an option to buy, has not played since sustaining a long-term injury during international duty in November. National head coach Jesse Marsch recently indicated that Cornelius has been training with Rangers' youth squad.
When questioned about Cornelius' current status, Rohl stated:
"He trained with us, and then the last couple of days more individual, and then we will see after the international break in which direction it goes."
Player's Role and Recent Appearances
Cornelius is the only left-sided centre-back in Rangers' first-team squad. He has made 11 appearances for the club, starting in all but one. Prior to his injury, he had made four starts and one substitute appearance in six matches under Rohl since the German took over in October.
Despite Rangers entering a critical phase of the season as they aim to surpass leaders Heart of Midlothian and reigning champions Celtic, Rohl confirmed that Cornelius will miss Saturday's match against Aberdeen.
"He will travel today to the national team," Rohl said. "I gave him the opportunity to go earlier to the national team."
Conversations Between Rohl and Cornelius
Rohl revealed he has held multiple discussions with Cornelius in recent days and plans to speak with him again after the international break.
"I had two conversations in the last couple of days with Derek. I will have a conversation when he comes back from the national team again.
"All these things between Derek and me, it's between us, this is crucial. I have my principles, this is very important."
Involvement of National Coach Jesse Marsch
Marsch disclosed that he has also communicated with Rohl in an effort to assist in resolving the situation.
"I think Derek and my person are very clear and it's the reason we need after the international break one more conversation and then we will see in which direction this goes," Rohl said.
"I think it was two or three times with Jesse in the conversation. I know him very well, we are good friends, we trust each other.
"In the end, it's about the club, Rangers on the other side, and this is also important."
Support for World Cup Participation
Rohl emphasized his understanding of the significance of playing in the World Cup and his commitment to supporting Cornelius to ensure his availability for the tournament this summer, which will be hosted in part by Canada.
"I know what it means to play a World Cup" and "I will support Derek" to make sure "he is available" for this summer's finals for one of the tournament hosts.
