Barry Ferguson is hopeful of having his first-choice central defensive pairing available as Rangers gear up for a crucial Europa League Round of 16 first-leg clash against Fenerbahce on Thursday.
The return of Leon Balogun and John Souttar could provide a much-needed boost for the Ibrox side, who have struggled defensively in their absence.
Rangers have been forced to rely on young Clinton Nsiala and summer signing Robin Propper in recent weeks, but the partnership has failed to inspire confidence.
Their defensive frailties have coincided with a turbulent period that saw Philippe Clement dismissed as manager following a string of damaging results.
Now, interim boss Ferguson is counting on the experience of Balogun and Souttar to steady the ship as they prepare for a daunting test in Istanbul.
Both defenders have reportedly pledged to make themselves available for selection, even if it means pushing the limits of sports science.
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Clement was widely criticised for his reliance on sports science to justify resting key players, a strategy that ultimately backfired and contributed to him being sacked by Rangers last month.
In contrast, Balogun and Souttar are determined to put their bodies on the line in an effort to salvage Rangers’ season, with both taking part in a full training session on Tuesday.
Rangers hopes of winning a domestic trophy are over, so the Europa League is their only chance to avoid finishing the campaign without any silverware.
Balogun was thrust into action at half-time during Saturday’s 2-1 Scottish Premiership defeat to Motherwell, despite having trained for just 25 minutes the previous day after a lengthy injury lay-off.
Ferguson turned to the experienced Nigerian international after opting to withdraw Propper at the break, with the Dutchman enduring another difficult first half.
That decision followed a similar call in Ferguson’s first game in charge, when he ruthlessly hooked Nsiala early in Rangers’ clash at Kilmarnock with his side 2-0 down.
He returned from a seven week absence at the end of January, only to suffer another setback three games later.
The former Hearts star hasn’t featured for the Light Blues since February 16, but he was back in full training this week, eager to contribute for Ferguson.
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With several basic defensive errors plaguing Rangers in recent weeks, the return of two experienced centre-backs could be crucial as they attempt to contain Fenerbahce and keep their European hopes alive.
The challenge remains formidable, with Jose Mourinho’s side boasting considerable attacking firepower, but Ferguson will take encouragement from the resolve shown by his returning defenders.
As Rangers travel to Istanbul in search of a result ahead of the return leg at Ibrox the following week, Balogun and Souttar’s presence could be pivotal in what is shaping up to be a defining fortnight in their season.
