Lee McCulloch

[pete 2,499]

Lee McCulloch has set his sights on a dramatic return to action in this weekend's Old Firm derby as he aims to boost Rangers' hopes of a third successive title.

 

The midfielder has been out of action since February 2 when a persistent knee problem finally forced him to undergo surgery.

 

McCulloch was initially told his season was probably over but he is now close to making his comeback.

 

And, although tonight's game at Dundee United comes too soon, he could be involved when Celtic come calling on Sunday.

 

He said: ââ?¬Å?I'm hopeful. If I can train by the end of the week, then I should be available.

 

ââ?¬Å?It would maybe only be two training sessions in nine weeks or so but I've been keeping myself as fit as I can. I'm fit enough and look after myself off the pitch so I don't see it being a problem.

 

ââ?¬Å?If I'm available and I get any game-time on the pitch, I'll be delighted. It would be massive to be involved.

 

ââ?¬Å?I've been wanting to come back and the last three weeks have been touch and go and I just haven't got there. I just want to play games and be involved.

 

ââ?¬Å?I know it's maybe a big ask to start some games towards the end of the season but just to be involved with the rest of the boys is all I want just now.

 

ââ?¬Å?To come back and contribute to trying to make it three-in-a-row would be something special but there is a lot of football to be played before then.ââ?¬Â McCulloch had been one of Rangers' more influential players this season until his spell on the sidelines. He added: ââ?¬Å?It's been tough to be honest. This is the hardest injury I've had in my career to get over.

 

ââ?¬Å?It's the first operation I've ever had and it gets to you mentally at times. There was a stage when I was told I probably wouldn't make it back this season.

 

ââ?¬Å?Then I went to see the surgeon, who told me I had a chance of coming back. It can play with your mind a bit.

 

ââ?¬Å?Hopefully I'll get back out over the next few games.ââ?¬Â

 

I never thought I would say it but we have really missed big Lee in many games.

[Gribz 966]

One of the reasons we have missed him is because Edu has been so bad.

 

Having McCullochs drive both on and off the field will be a timely boost though.

[Zappa 0]

If he's not fully fit I don't even want to see him on the bench, but we've got a habit of bringing back players too early so it wouldn't surprise me at all if he plays before he's really ready.

[laudrup11 0]

I'd put him on bench but wouldn't risk him unless he if 100% fit

I feel we will need as many fit players as possible in run in.

[calscot 0]

I fancy he might get a run out tonight, at least off the bench, and then be in the starting side on Sunday. With the reports of Edu's form it would be good to have someone with more grit to replace him for what could be like a champions cup final. We must win every game but Sunday is a six pointer and I can't see us coming back from a loss in that game.