Danny Rohl delivered an update on Dujon Sterling and Ryan Naderi as Rangers are set to take on Celtic in the Scottish Premiership this Sunday.
Sterling’s availability is important as he offers a more solid defensive option compared to James Tavernier, who has been Rohl’s go-to option at right-back.
However, Sterling has battled injury issues lately, and there remains a possibility of him being ruled out for the Old Firm derby.
James Tavernier expected to start after Danny Rohl’s recent press conference
Ahead of the Celtic clash, Rohl stated that both Naderi and Sterling are touch-and-go for the game.
Usually, by Thursday or Friday, managers get a clear indicator of whether or not players are ready for the weekend’s clash.
However, by the looks of it, both players are still not at 100 per cent, which is why the German is unwilling to confirm their involvement in the game.
He did confirm that the duo have been training, and even if they are cleared, starting them in a high-pressure and high-intensity game may prove counterproductive.
With Tavernier doing well, Rohl is expected to start him, and Sterling could potentially come on in the second half to see out the game.
Rohl said: “Both are training; if it’s enough to be in the squad, I have to decide tomorrow.
“Today I can’t say if they’re in or out.
“I need to see their reaction to the session.”
Is this Tavernier’s last season at Rangers?
Rangers are mulling over Tavernier’s new contract, but they will have to make a decision about it sooner rather than later.
The 34-year-old admitted that he was not thinking about his future and was taking things one game at a time, but it will surely be at the back of his mind.
His contract runs out at the end of June, and he seems no closer to signing a new deal.
He is the club’s highest earner, and if the plan is to bring in a right-back to start ahead of him, they may not want to give him that kind of money from next season.
This would mean that he may have to take a pay cut or end up parting ways with the Ibrox outfit permanently.
A decision is expected within the next few weeks, as all parties would require clarity going into a three-way fight for the Scottish Premiership title.
