Rangers boss Michael Beale faces a major injury headache going into the blockbuster Viaplay Cup final showdown against Celtic.
It's the biggest game of the season so far as the Glasgow heavyweights face off for the first piece of silverware on offer in Scotland, with both sides boasting lengthy unbeaten runs going into the showdown at Hampden. Beale boasts an unblemished record since taking the top job at Ibrox, while Ange Postecoglou's relentless champions boast a nine point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership as they look to defend the League Cup.
Beale would have been hoping to boast a full strength side as he looks to claim his first piece of silverware since stepping into the top job in Govan, but he could be without as many as 10 first team stars for the clash at the national stadium. In contrast, Celtic are expected to go in at full strength with Aaron Mooy and David Turnbull preparing to return to the squad in Mount Florida.
Injury-plagued striker Kemar Roofe is the latest player to drop out of the showpiece for Rangers after Beale confirmed he had picking up a "slight issue" in the win over Livingston. Malik Tillman, John Lundstram and Ryan Jack are all major doubts for the final after missing the clash in West Lothian.
At his final press conference ahead of the derby clash on Tuesday, Beale confirmed that the trio had yet to return to return to training, adding to a lengthy injury list that Beale is already carrying into the fixture.
John Souttar is training individually as he nears a return from ankle surgery but won't add to his one Rangers appearance in the final. Tom Lawrence and Rabbi Matondo also remain on the sidelines as they work on their fitness behind the scenes.
Belae would have liked to have turned to to experienced Steven Davis during the Old Firm cauldron but he will not feature for the Light Blues before the end of the campaign. Defensive duo Ridvan Yilmaz and Filip Helander are also still out.
You can also follow our dedicated Rangers and Celtic podcast pages and sign up to our newsletters to make sure you never miss a beat throughout the season.
READ NEXT
