RANGERS could move into their Coca-Cola Cup quarter-final against Hibs at Ibrox tonight without Brian Laudrup and Stuart McCall. They are suffering similar calf injuries - Laudrup collected his against Hearts at the weekend, while McCall took a knock in training.
Manager Walter Smith said: ``They will need time to recover. I am hopeful that both will be able to play against Hibs but we won't know until tomorrow. They will have fitness tests in the morning.''
Smith has added Craig Moore, Charlie Miller, and Ian Durrant to the squad on duty at the Hearts' game.
As well as the short-term injury worries over Laudrup and McCall, Smith dwelt on the longer-term worries to the Ibrox club.
Stephen Wright has flown to the USA because a recurrence of his cruciate ligament trouble will necessitate further surgery. David Robertson has seen a specialist again and the all clear is likely to allow him to begin full training immediately. Alan McLaren's comeback is perhaps two weeks behind Robertson.
Says Smith: ``I doubt if David will make the Old Firm game but he won't be far away. Alan will be just that little bit behind.''
As for Hibs, Smith recognises that the return of Ray Wilkins to Ibrox will have its own aura tonight. ``I am sure that Ray will get a warm welcome,'' said Smith. ``After all, he was a brilliant player when he was here and we all appreciate that.''
Wilkins is already a key figure for his new club and his team-mate, Scottish internationalist Darren Jackson, insists: ``Ray could walk into any team in Britain. It doesn't matter that he is 40. Some of the things he does with the ball are incredible.
``Also, he never stops talking to the younger players, telling them things, encouraging them, and still making his own contribution. He is sheer class.''
Wilkins could be joined tonight by Kevin McAllister, back from injury, and Pat McGinlay, free of suspension. However, the Easter Road team could be without Joe McLaughlin, Barry Lavety, Andy Dow, and Gordon Hunter, all receiving treatment yesterday.
q Auxerre's hard lesson
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