---
title: "Rangers defender makes timely return ahead of Jablonec clash"
canonical: "https://readrangers.com/2026/08/26/ben-godfrey-rangers-return-jablonec/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
section: "Rangers News"
published: "2026-08-26T16:01:00Z"
modified: "2026-09-22T16:07:35Z"
---

# Rangers defender makes timely return ahead of Jablonec clash

**[Ben Godfrey](https://readrangers.com/tag/ben-godfrey/) has returned to Rangers training in a timely boost for [Derek McInnes](https://readrangers.com/tag/derek-mcinnes/) ahead of the [Conference League](https://readrangers.com/tag/conference-league/) decider against [Jablonec](https://readrangers.com/tag/jablonec/) on Thursday.**

It’s very unlikely that Godfrey will be thrown straight back into the team in Czechia, but it would be a nice bonus to see the one-time England international return to the squad.

Manny Fernandez and [Olwethu Makhanya](https://readrangers.com/2026/08/25/rangers-fc-olwethu-makhanya-transfer-success-bedoya/) have been the chosen (only) partnership in recent weeks, with the South African settling in very well in recent weeks.

The initial task will be for Ben Godfrey to prove his fitness, then attempt to win back a place in the team.

Hopefully, the increased competition can trigger a reaction from [Manny Fernandez](https://readrangers.com/2026/08/20/derek-mcinnes-doesnt-miss-manny-fernandez/) who hasn’t been playing to the best of his ability in recent weeks.

Rangers trained on Thursday at Auchenhowie before making the journey to Czechia.

> Godfrey back and available it seems. [https://t.co/xD3v1Ui1Vz](https://t.co/xD3v1Ui1Vz)
>
> — Frankie (@GersnetOnline) [August 26, 2026](https://x.com/GersnetOnline/status/2092575492905811986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)

## Rangers to sign another defender before the transfer window closes?

[This is a very topical question](https://readrangers.com/2026/08/20/derek-mcinnes-late-surprise-at-centre-back/).

At present, the options at centre-back are Fernandez, Makhanya, and Godfrey with cover provided by Dujon Sterling and Ross McCrorie.

John Souttar appears to be heading for the exit, while Clinton Nsiala has been bombed out.

It’s not convincing is it…

You can understand that Derek McInnes is prioritising quality additions at the top of the pitch, but could we acquire an experienced head to come in when required, even if fourth choice?

It will all come down to resources and priorities, but even with one injury the options are very light.

Ben Godfrey returning to the Rangers squad is a welcome update but doubts still remain on his long-term fitness and availability.