Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has provided an injury update on both James Tavernier and Greg Stewart, as quoted by the Official Rangers FC Twitter.
The Gers are set to return to Premiership action against St Mirren on Wednesday evening, but neither player is available for selection.
Tavernier is expected to be out for at least a few weeks after recently undergoing a procedure to resolve an appendix issue which had appeared following the squad’s return from Dubai.
Judging by Gerrard’s comments here, though, the early signs are good regarding his recovery process, with the full-back already returning to the Hummel Training Centre.
“Tavernier is back in after his minor procedure, he is walking about and on the mend,” said Gerrard, as quoted by Rangers FC Twitter. “We are hoping he will return in a couple of weeks.”
The manager also provided a more general update, asserting that no injuries were picked up during Friday’s Scottish Cup Fourth Round win over Stranraer, but that Greg Stewart, who missed that game with a knock, isn’t yet ready to return.
Verdict
Naturally, it’s a blow to be without Tavernier, who, as skipper, has a big influence on this Rangers side.
Gerrard will also be disappointed to be without Stewart, especially given that Alfredo Morelos is unavailable through suspension.
However, at Ibrox, Rangers should still be far too strong for the Buddies.
Jim Goodwin’s side somewhat unconvincingly defeated East of Scotland League Premier Division side Broxburn Athletic at the weekend and are currently third from bottom of the Premiership.
The Gers will need to lift performance levels after their own rusty showing against Stranraer, but if they want a 55th title at the end of the season, they can’t afford to slip up in this type of game.
