A Race Against Time

[ian1964 10,720]

By Andrew Dickson

 

RANGERS could be without THREE first-choice defenders when they play Hearts tomorrow at Ibrox in the SPL.

 

Veteran stopper David Weir will definitely miss out as he is suspended after his red card against Inverness in the last league game earlier this month.

 

Kirk BroadfootBut Kirk Broadfoot and Madjid Bougherra are at risk of joining him on the sidelines as they struggle to overcome injuries in time.

 

Bougherra missed last Sunday's League Cup final against Celtic with a calf knock and he is still seen as a slight doubt.

 

While Broadfoot was able to play in the game at Hampden, he has a problem with his foot and after playing for two hours just five days ago he hasn't totally recovered.

 

Each player will be given the opportunity to show they're fit and able to take part in the crucial clash with the Jambos.

 

But if they're also ruled out, the likes of Lee McCulloch, Christian Dailly and Andy Webster could be summoned to feature at the back.

 

Teenager Danny Wilson, who was on the bench for the recent Scottish Cup tie at St Johnstone, could be another option.

 

Kevin Thomson is the only other confirmed absentee for Gers as he continues his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury.

 

But it's the situation he's faced with in his rearguard which will be causing the most concern to Walter Smith at this stage.