Michael Beale has revealed Connor Goldson and Ben Davies could return for Rangers on Thursday night - but insisted he won't rush the defensive duo.
The Ibrox boss has been boosted by Goldson's recovery progress with the centre-back way ahead of schedule and nearing a return to competitive action.
Davies - signed from Liverpool in the summer - is also in contention for a comeback against Hibs as domestic fixtures resume on Thursday night.
Beale had been down to two fit central defensive options in James Sands and Leon King who both started against Bayer Leverkusen. But experienced heads Goldson and Davies are set to rejoin the squad and bolster the new manager's options.
"If everything goes to plan I will have four options not two on Thursday," said Beale of the defensive injury concerns. "It's just where they'll be at physically.
"I think the five subs might help us but certainly, I won't rush them because we have got a busy period coming up.
"I was pleased with the two lads today; we have to remind ourselves that James Sands is playing out of position, and playing out of position very well on a day like today. And young Leon, who has been thrown in.
"If it's those guys that we go with on Thursday then I have got every confidence in them. If the whole team defend like that I've got all confidence in them.
"But Ben and Connor, the plan is in the next 24 to 48 hours they return to training, which will be hugely important to the group."
Beale went on to reveal that Goldson had in the past played through the pain for Rangers as he insisted he's hopeful the defender can return to playing almost every game for the club.
For that to happen, Beale admits he'll have to be cautious with Goldson upon his return - just as Davies will be similarly eased back into competitive game time.
The manager commented: "We've got a fantastic relationship and I know Connor just wants to get out there and play for the team.
"There were times previously when I was here that he played when other players might not play. He's never got praise for that, he doesn't want praise, it's just the sort of boy he is.
"He's ahead of schedule. What I won't do is rush him because I want him to be fit for 90 or 100 per cent of the games that he can be fit for between now and the end of the season.
"It was his first longer-term injury for three or four years but we are definitely a stronger squad, team and dressing room for Connor's presence so if he is available great.
"Likewise, with Ben but we certainly won't rush them."
