During a Europa League match against Fenerbahce in Turkey, Rangers player Robin Propper was involved in a painful collision with his teammate, goalkeeper Jack Butland.
The incident occurred in the 24th minute when Propper clashed heads with Butland while attempting to defend against Fenerbahce’s Dusan Tadic.
Propper was retreating to defend a through ball aimed for Tadic. He positioned himself between Tadic and the ball near the Rangers’ penalty box. However, Butland rushed out, seemingly without clear communication with Propper.
Despite the pressure, had Butland remained on his line, he might have headed the ball back to Propper or cleared it safely.
Instead, Butland charged forward to head the ball, as he was outside the penalty area and couldn’t handle it with his hands, inadvertently headbutting Propper in the process.
The defender fell heavily and appeared to be in considerable pain, prompting immediate concern from medical staff about a potential concussion or more serious injury.
At the time of the collision, Rangers were leading 1-0 due to an early goal from Cyriel Dessers.
Due to the head injury, Propper was substituted in the 28th minute, replaced by Leon Balogun. He was able to walk off the field without assistance. Soon after Propper’s departure, Rangers conceded a goal from a corner, leveling the score.
Fans expressed concern for Propper’s well-being after the incident. Many described Butland’s play as reckless but also hoped Propper had avoided serious injury, acknowledging the accidental nature of the collision.
Marcus Bellamy