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Rangers' Jamie Murphy out for season after injury on artificial turf

Photo by Alan Harvey/SNS Group via Getty Images

Rangers winger Jamie Murphy will miss the rest of the season after suffering a knee ligament injury, manager Steven Gerrard said on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old Scotland international was carried off in Sunday's 3-1 Scottish League Cup win over Kilmarnock, prompting Gerrard to criticise the use of a synthetic pitch at Rugby Park.

Gerrard said Rangers will do every thing they can to support Murphy in his recovery.

"Jamie has been excellent for me since day one," Gerrard told a news conference. "We are trying to help him in every way we can to give him all the support he needs as he is a huge player for us.

"The important thing now is the player and his care and we will ensure he sees the experts and support him along his recovery."

Also on Wednesday, Rangers announced the return of striker Kyle Lafferty after reaching a deal with Hearts.

The Northern Ireland international played at Ibrox from 2008 to 2012 and signed a two-year deal after scoring 20 goals for Hearts last season.

"When a player has his mind fully set on moving, it is difficult to reach an alternative conclusion," said Hearts owner Ann Budge. "It is no secret that this has been a particularly difficult and drawn-out affair. But the deal will suit all parties."

Rangers next face Russian side Ufa in the first leg of their Europa League qualifying playoff at Ibrox on Thursday.